Delicate, golden, and irresistibly rich, these Buttery Pecan Cookies are the perfect balance of crisp edges and a melt-in-your-mouth center. Infused with toasted pecans and a deep buttery flavor, they bring a touch of elegance to any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply indulging in a sweet moment, these cookies are a timeless delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfectly Buttery & Crisp – A soft, tender bite with just the right amount of crunch.
Nutty, Caramelized Flavor – Toasted pecans add warmth and richness to every bite.
Easy & Elegant – Simple ingredients come together effortlessly for a refined treat.
Perfect for Gifting – Beautifully textured cookies that make a thoughtful homemade gift.
Total Time & Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool, then chop finely.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Preheat the oven to 350°F once again and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the toasted pecans.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Expert Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Cookies
Use High-Quality Butter – European-style butter enhances the rich flavor.
Chill the Dough – For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Don’t Overmix – Stir the flour in gently to keep the cookies tender.
Pair It With
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream – A luxurious pairing for a warm cookie.
Salted Caramel Drizzle – Adds an extra layer of decadence.
A Cup of Earl Grey Tea – The floral notes complement the nutty sweetness.
Storing & Freezing
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.
Final Thoughts
These Buttery Pecan Cookies bring a nostalgic charm to any table, blending rich, nutty flavors with a soft yet crisp texture. Whether paired with a warm drink or wrapped as a heartfelt gift, they are an irresistible treat worth savoring. Enjoy the simplicity of homemade elegance in every bite.
