Description

Butter Pecan Cookies are a delightful baked treat combining creamy, softened butter, caramelized sugars, and the rich, nutty flavor of chopped pecans. These cookies have a perfect balance of soft centers with golden edges and a buttery aroma that fills your kitchen, making them an irresistible indulgence perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup light brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt

Add-ins

1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined, creating a smooth, creamy base.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Pecans: Sift the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt into the wet mixture. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft, cohesive cookie dough forms. Carefully fold in the chopped pecans to evenly distribute the nutty flavor throughout the dough.
Shape and Chill the Dough: Scoop portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each for spreading during baking. Cover the tray with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for about an hour to firm up and develop flavors.
Bake the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled cookie dough balls in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden while the centers remain slightly soft. This produces tender cookies with the ideal texture.
Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet to firm up. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before enjoying.

Notes

Use softened unsalted butter for better control of salt content and smooth texture.
To enhance pecan flavor, toast them lightly before chopping.
Avoid overmixing the dough to keep cookies tender and soft.
You can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if preferred.
The cookie dough can be frozen for later use; thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Optionally, add a pinch of cinnamon or drizzle caramel on top for added indulgence.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: butter pecan cookies, homemade cookies, pecan cookies, soft cookies, baking dessert, nutty cookies, holiday cookies