Introduction to Pecan Pie Cookies
If you’re a fan of the classic southern dessert, you’re in for a treat! Pecan Pie Cookies merge the rich flavors of traditional pecan pie into a bite-sized cookie, offering the same beloved taste without the need for a pie crust. These lush little creations are not just cookies—they are a delightful experience that brings the comforting essence of fall straight to your kitchen.
Why Pecan Pie Cookies?
Imagine biting into a chewy, buttery cookie, pleasantly punctuated by the crunch of toasted pecans and the warm sweetness of maple syrup. What’s not to love? These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a cozy get-together or simply looking for a sweet afternoon snack. The beauty of Pecan Pie Cookies lies in their versatility—they satiate your dessert cravings while also being easy to share.
For a festive twist, consider serving them during holiday gatherings or even wrapping them up as homemade gifts. They embody a sense of warmth and togetherness that makes every bite feel special. Plus, they’re relatively simple to make! Who wouldn’t want to whip up a batch to cozy up with a mug of hot cocoa?
Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Keep reading for your full guide to creating these delightful treats!
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Cookies
For the cookie dough
Creating the perfect base for your Pecan Pie Cookies starts with some classic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 tsp. cornstarch
- ½ tsp. baking soda
- ½ tsp. baking powder
- ½ tsp. salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- ½ cup dark brown sugar, packed
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
These ingredients are the building blocks of a rich, buttery cookie that will perfectly complement the sweet filling.
For the pecan pie filling
Now, let’s talk about that irresistibly gooey pecan pie filling that elevates your cookies to the next level. Gather these goodies:
- 6 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup dark brown sugar, packed
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp. ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp. ground cloves
- ¼ tsp. ground nutmeg
- ⅛ tsp. salt
- Flaky sea salt, for finishing
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting the rich, savory flavor profile of your Pecan Pie Cookies. For more baking tips and inspiration, check out sources like King Arthur Baking or Joy of Baking, where you can find a treasure trove of helpful baking advice and recipes. Happy baking!
Preparing Pecan Pie Cookies
Pecan pie lovers, rejoice! If you enjoy the rich, sweet flavors of pecan pie but crave the convenience of cookies, you’ve landed in the right place. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making buttery, delicious Pecan Pie Cookies. Let’s get baking!
Gather All Ingredients
Before diving in, make sure you have everything you need to create these mouthwatering cookies. A well-organized kitchen will save you time and stress. Here’s what to gather:
For the cookie dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. cornstarch
- ½ tsp. baking soda
- ½ tsp. baking powder
- ½ tsp. salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
For the pecan pie filling:
- 6 tbsp. unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup dark brown sugar
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp. ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp. ground cloves
- ¼ tsp. ground nutmeg
- ⅛ tsp. salt
- Flaky sea salt for finishing
Make sure to check ingredient freshness; old baking soda or flour can impact your cookie outcomes.
Make the Cookie Dough
Start by mixing together your dry ingredients: flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set this aside while you cream the butter and sugars. In a mixing bowl, beat the cubes of unsalted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes!
Now, add in the egg and egg yolk, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; blend until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the dark brown sugar and maple syrup, allowing it to come to a gentle boil. Remove from the heat and whisk in the heavy cream, then add in the spices and the chopped pecans. This is where the magic happens!
Combine and Shape the Cookies
Now that your cookie dough and pecan pie filling are ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Take a tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it in your hand. Add a small spoonful of the pecan pie filling in the center and wrap the dough around it to form a ball. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—the charm is in the homemade appearance!
Bake the Cookies to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cookie balls, spacing them at least two inches apart. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden. Let them cool on the sheet for a minute, and then transfer them to a wire rack. When they cool completely, add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that perfect finishing touch!
Enjoy your Pecan Pie Cookies fresh, or store them in an airtight container for later. These cookies are perfect for snacking or impressing friends at gatherings. Happy baking!
Variations on Pecan Pie Cookies
When it comes to Pecan Pie Cookies, there's room for creativity! Here are two delightful variations to try.
Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Cookies
For those who cherish the classic chocolate chip cookie, try adding mini chocolate chips to your Pecan Pie Cookies dough. The rich, melty chocolate paired with the nutty pecans creates a harmonious blend that will elevate your cookie experience. Simply fold in about a cup of chocolate chips into the dough before baking, and get ready to enjoy a truly indulgent treat!
Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Cookies
Need a gluten-free option? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum to help the cookies maintain their chewy texture. Just make sure to check the labels on your ingredients, including the baking powder and cornstarch, to ensure they are gluten-free. These cookies will still deliver on flavor and decadence without the gluten!
Experiment with these variations and let us know which one becomes your new favorite!
Baking Notes for Pecan Pie Cookies
Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients
When making Pecan Pie Cookies, having your ingredients at room temperature is crucial. This helps create a smooth, well-combined dough that leads to a tender cookie. Room temperature butter mixes more evenly with sugars, lending your cookies a rich flavor. Let your eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before you start baking; it really makes a difference!
Ensuring Even Baking
To ensure your Pecan Pie Cookies bake evenly, consider spacing them adequately on the baking sheet. A distance of about two inches allows hot air to flow between each cookie, promoting a lovely golden-brown finish. Also, rotating the baking sheet halfway through can help avoid any hot spots in your oven. If you’re curious about cookie techniques, check out this article on perfecting cookie recipes. Happy baking!
Serving suggestions for Pecan Pie Cookies
Enjoying with coffee or tea
Nothing complements Pecan Pie Cookies quite like a warm cup of coffee or tea. The rich flavors of the cookies—sweet and nutty—pair beautifully with the boldness of coffee or the herbal notes of your favorite tea. Consider brewing a smooth medium roast coffee or a soothing chai tea. This combination creates a comforting moment, perfect for a cozy afternoon break or a casual catch-up with friends.
Presentation ideas for gatherings
When hosting, presentation is key! Arrange your Pecan Pie Cookies on a rustic wooden platter or a decorative cake stand for an eye-catching display. Add fresh pecans or sprigs of mint for a touch of color. To elevate this treat further, place cookies in decorative take-home bags with a sweet thank-you note for guests. These small gestures make your gathering memorable while showcasing your delightful homemade treats.
For more inspiration on gathering presentation ideas, check out The Spruce Eats. Add a unique touch to your cookie presentation with their creative tips!
Tips for Making Perfect Pecan Pie Cookies
Measuring Flour Accurately
To get the perfect texture for your Pecan Pie Cookies, measuring flour correctly is crucial. Use the spoon-and-level method: spoon flour into your measuring cup and then level it off with a straight edge. This helps avoid excess flour that can lead to dry cookies. For a deeper dive into measuring techniques, check out this flour measurement guide.
Allowing Cookies to Cool Properly
Once your Pecan Pie Cookies are out of the oven, resist the urge to devour them immediately! Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step ensures they firm up and maintain their gooey pecan filling. Did you know that cooling cookies properly can enhance their flavor and texture? A little patience goes a long way!
Time Details for Pecan Pie Cookies
Preparation Time
These delightful Pecan Pie Cookies require about 20 minutes of prep. Take your time to enjoy the process—baking should be fun! Gather your ingredients, and don’t forget to preheat your oven while you’re at it.
Baking Time
Once your cookies are ready to go, it’s time to bake! Expect them to need about 12-15 minutes in the oven. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.
Total Time
In total, you're looking at around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. With a bit of patience and love, you’ll end up with scrumptious cookies that are sure to impress. If you’re interested in tips for variations or side dishes, check out this baking tips guide for more insights!
Nutritional Information for Pecan Pie Cookies
When indulging in Pecan Pie Cookies, it's good to know what you're savoring! Each cookie packs a delightful combination of flavors and nutrients, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Calories
On average, each cookie contains about 150 calories, making them a delectable yet manageable sweet option.
Protein
These cookies offer around 2 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the addition of eggs and pecans, which can help balance the dessert with a bit of sustenance.
Sodium
With approximately 80 mg of sodium, Pecan Pie Cookies keep things savory without overwhelming your taste buds.
For more insights into cookie nutrition, explore resources like the USDA FoodData Central for detailed information. Treat yourself to this delightful cookie recipe, knowing you’re enjoying a little indulgence responsibly!
FAQs about Pecan Pie Cookies
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Pecan Pie Cookies freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They'll stay fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven.
What if I don’t have certain ingredients on hand?
No worries! Baking is all about flexibility. If you’re low on brown sugar, you can swap in granulated sugar, although the flavor will differ slightly. Don't have butter? Coconut oil or margarine can work instead. Just ensure any substitutes are used in similar quantities for the best results.
How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your Pecan Pie Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about a week. If you notice any moisture or sogginess, try adding a slice of bread to the container—this little trick helps absorb excess moisture and keeps them delightfully chewy! For detailed storage tips, check out resources from the Food Network.
Conclusion on Pecan Pie Cookies
In summary, Pecan Pie Cookies beautifully combine the rich flavor of pecan pie with the comforting texture of cookies. Ideal for gatherings or a sweet treat at home, these cookies are easy to make and sure to impress. Try them today and bring a taste of nostalgia to your kitchen!
For more delicious desserts, check out Baking with Butter for inspiration.
Pecan Pie Cookies: Easy and Indulgent Treats for Everyone
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the cookie dough
- 2 cups all purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter cut into cubes
- ½ cup dark brown sugar packed
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk room temperature
For the pecan pie filling
- 6 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup dark brown sugar packed
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 cups pecans chopped
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- flaky sea salt for finishing
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract, egg, and egg yolk to the butter mixture and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter for the filling, then stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, heavy cream, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Fold in the chopped pecans to the filling mixture.
- Scoop cookie dough onto a baking sheet, creating a small well in the center of each. Fill with pecan pie filling.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before finishing with flaky sea salt.
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