If you adore the rich, buttery flavors of classic pecan pie but want something handheld and irresistibly charming, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling Recipe. Imagine tender cookies with a golden crust hugging a luscious, sticky, nut-studded filling that melts in your mouth, delivering all the warmth and sweetness of pecan pie in every bite. These cookies are the perfect blend of crunchy, gooey, nutty, and sugary, making them a favorite for sharing with friends, family, or keeping as your own little secret indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling Recipe lies in its simple but carefully chosen ingredients that each play a vital role. From the rich butter creating tender dough to the sweet brown sugar and toasted pecans that provide that signature flavor and delightful texture, every component enhances the final experience.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Provides richness and a tender crumb to the cookie base.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Adds deep caramel notes and moisture to the dough.
- Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients and adds structure.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the sweetness with warm, aromatic depth.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): Forms the cookie’s sturdy yet soft foundation; gluten-free baking blend if preferred.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances flavors and amplifies sweetness.
- Brown sugar (3/4 cup, packed): Essential for that sticky, gooey filling’s signature sweetness.
- Light corn syrup (1/4 cup) or pure maple syrup: Provides smooth texture and a subtle hint of sweetness in the filling.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds a silky richness to the filling.
- Large egg, beaten (1): Tempered into the filling for a luscious, creamy consistency.
- Toasted pecans (1 cup, chopped): Offers crunch and nuttiness that define the filling’s character.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness inside the gooey filling perfectly.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by creaming the softened unsalted butter with the first portion of brown sugar until your mixture is fluffy and smooth — this is what will give your cookies their melt-in-your-mouth texture. Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract to infuse flavor and moisture. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms. Chilling this dough for at least 30 minutes makes it easier to handle and intensifies the taste, so don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
While the dough chills, toast your chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently so they brown evenly and release their irresistible aroma. Toasting brings out the nuts’ natural oils and boosts flavor, making each bite unbeatable. Set the pecans aside once they’re fragrant and lightly browned.
Step 3: Make the Gooey Filling
Next, gently combine the brown sugar, light corn syrup, butter, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan over low heat until everything melts into a smooth mixture. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the beaten egg to temper it, creating a silky, custard-like filling. Finally, fold in those toasted pecans — the filling should be sticky, luscious, and bursting with nutty goodness.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
Roll your chilled dough into small balls and press each one into the cups of a muffin tin or onto a lined baking sheet to create little wells for the filling. Spoon your gooey pecan mixture generously into each one, filling nearly to the top but leaving room so it won’t spill over while baking. This is the moment where your cookies truly start to come together!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the filling bubbles deliciously and sets slightly, and the cookie edges turn a gorgeous golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack before carefully removing each cookie from the tin. The result? A perfect balance of crisp cookie and gooey pecan pie filling that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty finish and extra touch of sweetness that’s simply irresistible. For a little crunch contrast, a few whole toasted pecans on top make the presentation look as wonderful as the flavors taste. If you want to get fancy, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate complements the gooey filling with a bittersweet twist.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the rich sweetness. A cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk are also perfect companions, highlighting the buttery and nutty nuances in every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these cookies on a rustic wooden board surrounded by clusters of cinnamon sticks and star anise for an inviting display. Alternatively, arrange them in mini cupcake liners to make sharing effortless at gatherings or to gift as pretty homemade treats during holidays and special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay soft and delicious for up to five days. This makes them perfect for baking ahead for parties or as a midweek treat.
Freezing
For longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months—ready whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or room-temperature cookies for about 10-15 seconds in the microwave to restore that fresh-from-the-oven gooey filling sensation. Be careful not to overheat, as you want the filling warm but still perfectly sticky without drying out the cookies.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend of equal measure. This recipe works wonderfully with gluten-free flours, and the texture remains soft and tender.
What can I use instead of corn syrup?
Pure maple syrup or honey are great natural alternatives to light corn syrup in the filling. They each add a different layer of sweetness and depth, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite twist.
How long do the cookies need to chill before baking?
At least 30 minutes in the refrigerator is recommended. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to handle and also allowing flavors to develop more fully for a richer taste.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Definitely! The recipe scales well, just be sure to use multiple muffin tins or bake in batches to ensure even cooking and consistently gooey filling in every cookie.
Why is my filling not setting properly?
Usually, this is because the egg wasn’t tempered correctly or the baking time was too short. Make sure you stir the beaten egg into the warm sugar mixture off the heat to avoid scrambling it, and bake until the filling bubbles and firms up slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling Recipe is one of those treats that feels like a warm hug on a cool day — sweet, comforting, and utterly addictive. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a bake sale, or just because you deserve a little something special, these cookies deliver joy in every bite. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be making them again and again.
Print
Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
These Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling combine a buttery, tender cookie base with a rich, sticky pecan pie-inspired filling. Toasted pecans add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor, while the luscious gooey topping captures the classic pecan pie sweetness in a portable, delightful cookie form. Perfect for holiday treats or anytime sweet cravings strike.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free baking blend for gluten-free)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Pecan Filling
- 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup (60ml) light corn syrup (or pure maple syrup for maple twist)
- 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup (120g) pecans, chopped and toasted
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: Cream the softened butter with 1/2 cup brown sugar until fluffy and smooth. Beat in 1 large egg and vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and ease handling.
- Toast the Pecans: While the dough chills, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add chopped pecans and toast, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Gooey Filling: In a saucepan, gently heat 3/4 cup brown sugar, light corn syrup, 2 tablespoons butter, and a pinch of salt over low heat until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the beaten egg to temper it. Fold in the toasted pecans, creating a sticky, luscious filling.
- Assemble the Cookies: Roll chilled dough into small balls. Press each ball into the cups of a muffin tin or onto a lined baking sheet to create small wells. Spoon the pecan filling generously into each dough cup, filling nearly to the top.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes until the filling bubbles and sets slightly and edges turn golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before carefully removing them from the tin or sheet.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of corn syrup for a richer flavor.
- Ensure the egg is beaten and added off heat to prevent cooking when making the filling.
- Chilling dough is crucial to maintain shape during baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
