
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Browned Butter Magic : Browning the butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that elevates the entire cookie.
- Pecan Crunch : Toasted pecans provide a satisfying texture and complement the buttery base beautifully.
- Soft & Chewy Texture : These cookies strike the perfect balance between soft centers and slightly crisp edges.
- Simple Ingredients : Made with pantry staples and easy-to-find pecans, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile : Enjoy them plain, drizzle with icing, or pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra decadence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Makes 20–24 cookies
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (for browning)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg , room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup toasted pecans , roughly chopped
Optional Topping:
- Flaky sea salt (for sprinkling before baking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Butter
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter foams, then subsides, and turns a golden brown color with a nutty aroma (about 5–7 minutes). Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Pour the browned butter into a heatproof bowl and let it cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Fold in the Pecans
- Gently fold in the toasted pecans using a spatula. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
- Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes . Chilling helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Step 6: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Sprinkle each cookie with a pinch of flaky sea salt if desired.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes , or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve warm or at room temperature for maximum enjoyment.
Why This Recipe Works
- Browned Butter : Adds a rich, caramelized flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cookies.
- Toasted Pecans : Elevates the nuttiness and provides a satisfying crunch.
- Chilling the Dough : Prevents excessive spreading and ensures a chewy texture.
Variations to Try
- Add Chocolate Chips : Stir in semi-sweet or white chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Gluten-Free Option : Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Spice It Up : Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
- Double the Nuts : Increase the pecans to 1 1/2 cups for an extra nutty experience.
- Drizzle with Glaze : Mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla, then drizzle over cooled cookies for added sweetness.
Tips for Success
- Toast the Pecans : Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool before chopping.
- Don’t Skip Chilling : Chilling the dough is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
- Storage : Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Touch : Dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle with flaky sea salt for elegance.
- Brunch Staple : Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy breakfast treat.
- Party Platter : Arrange the cookies on a dessert stand alongside other treats like brownies, cupcakes, or fruit tarts for variety.
Final Thoughts
These Butter Pecan Cookies are a celebration of rich, nutty flavors and buttery goodness. With their soft, chewy texture, crunchy pecans, and aromatic browned butter, they’re a recipe that feels indulgent yet comforting. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion, a casual gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to delight.
Your turn! Have you ever baked with browned butter or toasted nuts before? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. π°