If you are looking for a delightful treat that combines the buttery chewiness of cookies with the rich, nutty sweetness of pecan pie, you are in for a real treat with this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe. These little gems capture all the decadent flavors of classic pecan pie but in a perfectly bite-sized, handheld form. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or just an everyday indulgence, this recipe brings warmth, crunch, and gooey goodness into every single bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe lies in its wonderfully simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a special role, from creating a tender, buttery dough to a sticky, nutty filling that perfectly balances sweetness and texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, creamy base that makes the dough tender and fluffy.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cookie’s structure during baking.
- 1 large egg yolk: Binds the dough ingredients, adding richness and moisture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the pecans.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookie dough, providing structure and softness.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Adds crunch and authentic pecan pie texture to the filling.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Gives the filling deep caramel notes and stickiness.
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup: Helps create that classic gooey filling that holds everything together.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and smoothness to the pecan filling.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Boosts the filling’s flavor for a well-rounded taste.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness in the pecan filling, enhancing the overall flavor.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Let’s get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together your softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, which helps create a tender, soft cookie texture.
Step 3: Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla
Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until everything is beautifully combined. This blend brings moisture and a fragrant depth that you’ll notice in every bite.
Step 4: Stir in Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the all-purpose flour and salt into your wet ingredients. You’ll end up with a slightly crumbly dough that still holds together when pressed, perfect for rolling into balls.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop out dough portions and roll each into a ball. Place them on your baking sheet with about 2 inches between each one to give them room to spread. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in the center of each ball – that’s where the luscious filling will go.
Step 6: Prepare the Pecan Filling
In another bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, light corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir this mixture until it’s sticky and well-blended, creating that iconic pecan pie filling taste and texture.
Step 7: Fill and Bake
Spoon a generous amount of the pecan filling into each cookie indentation. Then bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden color. Give your cookies a few minutes to cool on the tray before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these pecan pie cookies are stunning as they are, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate can add an extra touch of elegance and sweetness. A sprinkle of sea salt on top can really enhance the flavors by contrasting beautifully with the sugary filling.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. A cup of hot coffee or rich black tea also complements the buttery sweetness perfectly, rounding out your treat time in the best way.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe on a rustic wooden board alongside whole pecans and cinnamon sticks for a cozy display. Wrapping them individually in parchment paper tied with a festive ribbon makes them an ideal homemade gift. You can even create mini cookie sandwiches by adding a layer of cream cheese frosting or caramel between two cookies for extra decadence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover pecan pie cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. This preserves their buttery texture while keeping the filling deliciously moist and gooey.
Freezing
If you want to save them for later, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a resealable freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months.
Reheating
To enjoy your cookies after freezing, simply let them thaw at room temperature. For a just-baked warm feeling, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This keeps the filling melted and the cookie soft without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans give these cookies their classic flavor, walnuts or almonds can also work nicely for a different nutty twist. Just keep the texture and sweetness balance in mind.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. The dough texture might vary slightly, but the end result will still be delightful and flavorful.
How do I prevent the pecan filling from spilling out during baking?
Creating a well-defined indentation in the cookie dough and not overfilling it helps keep the filling contained. Baking at the right temperature and timing also ensures the filling sets without overflowing.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking. This often helps the dough hold together better and can enhance the flavors as they meld.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing after baking?
Yes, these cookies freeze well once fully baked and cooled. Just store them in an airtight container or freezer bag and thaw as desired. They maintain great flavor and texture after freezing.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got the scoop on this wonderfully tasty Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe, I encourage you to give it a try and share the joy it brings. From the first buttery bite to the last sticky, nutty morsel, these cookies are guaranteed to become a beloved classic in your baking repertoire. Happy baking and even happier tasting!
Print
Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Delight in these Pecan Pie Cookies, a perfect blend of buttery, crumbly cookie dough topped with a sweet and sticky pecan pie filling. These bite-sized treats capture all the flavors of classic pecan pie in an easy-to-make cookie form, ideal for sharing or enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
Pecan Pie Filling
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract and mix until well combined, creating a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. The dough will seem slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press an indentation into the center of each ball, creating space for the filling.
- Prepare the Pecan Filling: In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, light corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the filling becomes sticky and fully combined, perfect for spooning into the cookies.
- Fill the Cookies: Carefully spoon a small amount of the pecan filling into each indentation, filling them to the top but avoiding overfilling to prevent spilling during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookie edges turn lightly golden and the filling is set. Keep an eye to prevent over-browning.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For a crunchier cookie, toast the pecans lightly before adding to the filling.
- Make sure the butter for the dough is just softened, not melted, for the best texture.
- The indentation in the dough balls is key to holding the filling without it spilling over.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- These cookies freeze well; thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
