If you adore the rich, buttery, nutty goodness of pecan pie but want something a little more portable and perfectly portioned, these Pecan Pie Cookies – A Cookie Version of Your Favorite Pie! Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine all those classic flavors packed into a soft, chewy cookie with a luscious pecan filling—each bite delivers that signature caramelized sweetness with a delightful crunch of toasted pecans. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or craving a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee, these cookies bring the joy of pecan pie in an irresistibly fun form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things straightforward with pantry staples and a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create those iconic flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the soft, buttery cookie base to the gooey, nutty filling that steals the show.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides that tender, rich base flavor essential for a perfect cookie texture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with that lovely cookie structure.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings a deeper caramel note that pairs beautifully with pecans.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the warm flavors in both the dough and filling.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookie that keeps it soft yet sturdy.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Adds just enough lift to keep the cookies light.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavor.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: The star ingredient, offering crunch and that iconic nutty taste.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: For the filling’s rich sweetness and chewiness.
- 1/4 cup corn syrup or maple syrup: Creates that sticky, gooey texture within the filling.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Infuses the filling with a luscious richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor of the pecan filling.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies – A Cookie Version of Your Favorite Pie! Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating up your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple preparation ensures your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick, setting the stage for cookie perfection.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is key to front-loading sweetness and creating a delicate crumb. Next, beat in the egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully combined—this makes the dough silky and fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt together. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir just until the dough comes together softly, avoiding overmixing, so your cookies stay tender.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread. Then, carefully use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to press an indentation into the center of each dough ball—this little well will soon hold all that delicious pecan filling.
Step 5: Prepare the Pecan Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup (or maple syrup), melted butter, and vanilla extract until everything is combined. This filling is the magic that transforms these cookies into a mini pecan pie experience—the sticky, sweet mixture pairs perfectly with the buttery dough.
Step 6: Fill the Cookies
Carefully spoon a small amount of the pecan filling into the indentation on each cookie. Be mindful not to overfill to avoid spillover during baking.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden and the filling is bubbling slightly. Let them cool for about five minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. This cooling step helps the cookies set beautifully so you can enjoy that perfect chewy-crunchy contrast.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies – A Cookie Version of Your Favorite Pie! Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little extra flair to these cookies is simple and fun. A light dusting of powdered sugar can mimic a delicate snowfall effect and add just a hint of extra sweetness. Alternatively, try drizzling some melted chocolate or caramel over the top to complement the pecan filling’s richness and bring some visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Serve these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a decadent dessert experience. For a cozy afternoon snack, pair them with a hot cup of coffee, spicy chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, arrange Pecan Pie Cookies – A Cookie Version of Your Favorite Pie! Recipe on a rustic wooden board garnished with whole pecans and sprigs of fresh rosemary or cinnamon sticks for a festive touch. You can also package them in cute little boxes tied with ribbons to give as charming homemade gifts that will impress any pecan pie lover.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These cookies keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. This is perfect if you want to make them a day or two in advance of a party or simply enjoy freshly baked goodness throughout the week without losing their chewy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies by placing them in a sealed freezer bag or container. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours—this way, you’ll have fresh-tasting cookies anytime you crave a bite of Pecan Pie Cookies – A Cookie Version of Your Favorite Pie! Recipe magic.
Reheating
To revive any chilled or slightly softened cookies, warm them in a 300-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 5 minutes. This will refresh their texture and taste, making them taste as if they were just baked.
FAQs
Can I use maple syrup instead of corn syrup in the filling?
Absolutely! Maple syrup is a fantastic substitute that adds a lovely depth of flavor to the filling and keeps things natural and delicious.
What type of pecans should I use?
Use fresh, raw pecans chopped roughly for the best texture and flavor. Toasting them slightly before mixing can enhance their nuttiness even more.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking during baking?
Don’t overfill the indents, and place the cookies spaced well apart. The filling will thicken as it bakes, so a modest amount is perfect to avoid spills.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough and even shape the balls with indentations ahead of time, then refrigerate them for up to two days before filling and baking.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
The recipe as written includes all-purpose flour, so they are not gluten-free. However, you could experiment with a gluten-free baking blend for a safe alternative.
Final Thoughts
There is something irresistibly charming about these Pecan Pie Cookies – A Cookie Version of Your Favorite Pie! Recipe. They capture all the indulgence of classic pecan pie but are perfectly sized for snacking, sharing, and celebrating any time of the year. Give them a try—you might find yourself baking them over and over again and spreading joy one cookie at a time!
Print
Pecan Pie Cookies – A Cookie Version of Your Favorite Pie! Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pecan Pie Cookies combine the rich, gooey filling of a classic pecan pie with the chewy texture of a cookie, creating a delightful handheld dessert. These cookies feature a buttery soft dough topped with a sweet pecan filling made from brown sugar and corn syrup, baked to golden perfection for a treat that fans of pecan pie will adore.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Pecan Filling
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup corn syrup or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated, creating a sweet, creamy base for the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing each about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to press a small indentation into the center of each dough ball; this will hold the pecan filling.
- Prepare the Pecan Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup (or maple syrup), melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended.
- Fill the Cookies: Spoon a small amount of the pecan filling into each indentation, being careful not to overfill to prevent spilling during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden, indicating they’re perfectly baked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve once cooled to enjoy the ideal texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a natural alternative in the pecan filling.
- Make sure not to overfill the cookie indentations to avoid spilling during baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for best freshness.
- For extra crunch, lightly toast the chopped pecans before mixing them into the filling.
