Description
These Butter Pecan Cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with the irresistible combination of toasted pecans and rich brown butter. With their deep, nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re a quick yet satisfying treat that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1¼ cups pecan halves, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1¼ cups dark brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2½ tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
1️⃣ Toast the Pecans: In a small skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add chopped pecans and toast for 5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
2️⃣ Brown the Butter: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 cup butter. Swirl the pan occasionally until the butter turns amber and releases a nutty aroma (about 5 minutes). Transfer to a bowl and cool for 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cooled brown butter, unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract and mix until well-combined.
4️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sea salt, baking soda, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5️⃣ Add the Toasted Pecans: Gently fold the toasted pecans into the dough.
6️⃣ Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading during baking.
7️⃣ Bake the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop portions of dough onto the sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 7-9 minutes or until edges are golden and centers are set.
8️⃣ Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Add-ins: Try adding toffee bits or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for warmth.
- Nut Substitution: Use walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts instead of pecans for a different flavor.
- Chewy Cookies: For extra chewiness, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or underbake by a minute.
- Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative.
