Name: Irresistibly Soft Butter Pecan Cookies for the Holidays
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 54 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup chopped toasted pecans; 1/2 cup toffee bits (optional)

As I stood in my kitchen, the inviting aroma of toasting pecans enveloped me, sending waves of nostalgia and anticipation through my senses. There’s something truly special about baking, especially when the recipe involves Soft and Chewy Butter Pecan Cookies. These delightful cookies are not just easy to whip up; they also bring a warm, joyful spirit to any holiday gathering, making them perfect for Christmas and Thanksgiving. Loaded with roasted pecans and the optional surprise of toffee bits, each bite offers a cozy, buttery indulgence that will keep family and friends returning for more. Ready to fill your home with mouthwatering scents and cheerful vibes? Let’s dive into this charming cookie adventure together!

Why are Butter Pecan Cookies a Must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: The blend of toasted pecans and buttery goodness creates a taste that’s hard to resist.

Quick and Simple: With a straightforward set of instructions, you’ll have warm cookies ready in no time, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.

Festive Treat: These cookies are the ideal sweet addition to your holiday dessert table, charming both kids and adults alike.

Customizable Touch: Whether you add toffee bits or swap in different nuts, feel free to make them uniquely yours!

Keeps Well: Store them in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for later; they’re just as delightful!

For more delightful holiday treats, try pairing them alongside Snowball Cookies Melt for an irresistible platter or serve with a warm cup of cocoa this season!

Butter Pecan Cookies Ingredients

• For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – Essential for richness; make sure it’s melted and slightly cooled for the best texture.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and stabilizes the structure of the cookies.
Brown Sugar – Enhances moisture and infuses a delicious caramel flavor.
Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds necessary moisture.
Vanilla Extract – Imparts lovely, aromatic notes, elevating the flavor profile.
All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of the cookie’s structure, providing that classic cookie base.
Cinnamon Powder – Brings warmth and coziness, creating that holiday spirit.
Cornstarch – Ensures a tender, soft texture for those chewy delights.
Baking Soda – Helps your cookies rise and stay light and fluffy.
Baking Powder – Works in tandem with baking soda for a perfectly airy texture.

• For the Add-ins

Pecans – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor; toasted pecans are preferred for a richer taste.
Toffee Bits (Optional) – A delicious surprise that introduces a buttery sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the Butter Pecan Cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup of melted and slightly cooled unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the sugars are fully incorporated, and the mixture has a pale color.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until smooth and well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed evenly. This step enhances the richness of your Butter Pecan Cookies and infuses delightful flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as we want those cookies to remain tender.

Step 4: Fold in Add-ins
Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped, toasted pecans and, if desired, ½ cup of toffee bits into the dough using a rubber spatula. Mix just until the add-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This will ensure each bite of your Butter Pecan Cookies is loaded with delightful crunch and sweetness.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes. Chilling the dough will firm it up, making it easier to shape into cookies and enhancing the final texture of your Butter Pecan Cookies, contributing to that soft and chewy consistency.

Step 6: Shape Cookies
Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out small portions of dough, about 1-2 tablespoons each, roll them into balls, and optionally coat in granulated sugar for an extra crunch. Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking tray, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart for even baking.

Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 11-14 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges and slightly poofy in the center. The cookies will continue to bake on the tray after being removed from the oven, so be careful not to overbake for that perfect chewy texture.

Step 8: Cool
Allow the Butter Pecan Cookies to cool on the baking tray for about 5 minutes, as they will soften and deflate slightly during this time. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth experience that you’ll love!

Expert Tips for Butter Pecan Cookies

Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is melted but not hot. Hot butter can scramble the eggs, ruining the cookie texture.
Chill for Texture: Don’t skip chilling the dough! It not only makes dough handling easier but also enhances the final soft and chewy texture of your Butter Pecan Cookies.
Perfectly Measure Flour: Use the spoon and level method for measuring flour. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, so being accurate is key.
Check Cookie Doneness: The cookies should be golden on the edges and slightly poofy in the center. Remember, they continue to cook while cooling on the tray.
Customize Add-ins: For unique flavors, feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or experiment with butterscotch chips instead of toffee bits!

What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Butter Pecan Cookies

Indulging in these soft and chewy cookies can be hardly contained, especially when paired with delightful accompaniments that elevate the whole experience.

Warm Cup of Cocoa: The rich, creamy chocolate complements the buttery flavors perfectly, creating a comforting duo that warms the soul. Cozy up with a steaming mug as the sweet aroma fills the air!
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm cookies. The creaminess melts into the cookie’s chewy center for an indulgent treat that makes your taste buds sing.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Infuse your cookie experience with the essence of the season! The spices in the latte harmonize beautifully with the warm cinnamon notes in your cookies.
Caramel Drizzle: A touch of warm caramel drizzled over the cookies adds a luscious sweetness and an eye-catching presentation. It’s a luxurious finishing touch that will have everyone swooning.
Festive Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies. Consider adding pears, apples, or cranberries to evoke seasonal joy and balance the flavors.
Holiday Eggnog: This creamy, spiced beverage pairs wonderfully, enhancing the festive spirit. Sip it alongside your cookies for a celebratory combination that evokes cherished memories.
Cheese Board: An assortment of mild cheeses can elevate the experience with their creamy textures. Add a few nuts and dried fruits to echo the cookie’s flavors for a charming dessert spread.
Mint Tea: The refreshing notes of mint tea cleanse the palate, balancing the richness of the cookies admirably. This soothing drink is perfect for mellowing out after a delightful platter.

Make Ahead Options

These Butter Pecan Cookies are perfect for busy cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator. Simply scoop out the dough and roll it into balls, then cover and refrigerate; this helps the cookies maintain their chewy texture. On the day you wish to bake, just take the chilled cookie dough out, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then bake as directed. For longer storage, you can freeze the rolled dough for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking, so you can enjoy fresh, warm Butter Pecan Cookies any day!

Butter Pecan Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore and personalize your cookies with these enjoyable twists that will tickle your taste buds!

Nut Alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds to discover new nutty flavors while maintaining that satisfying crunch.
Sweet Replacement: Substitute toffee bits with butterscotch chips or even dark chocolate chunks for a delightful twist that adds extra sweetness.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk in place of eggs for a dairy-free version that still feels indulgent.
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy these treats!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a surprising hint of spice that beautifully contrasts the sweetness.
Oatmeal Twist: Mix in 1 cup of rolled oats to add texture to your Butter Pecan Cookies while enhancing the heartiness of each bite.
Coconut Flair: Fold in ½ cup of shredded coconut for an unexpected layer of tropical flavor that pairs surprisingly well with pecans.
Fruity Addition: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a pop of tartness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.

For more delightful combinations, consider serving these flavorful cookies alongside Mini Sugar Cookies for a charming dessert platter that will surprise your guests!

Storage Tips for Butter Pecan Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Butter Pecan Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and chewy, ready for snacking anytime!
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container, which helps them last a bit longer—up to 10 days—but may alter their texture slightly, making them firmer.
Freezer: Freeze cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in a sealed freezer bag, for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften.
Reheating: For the best experience, reheat cookies in the microwave at low power for about 10-15 seconds. This revitalizes their soft and chewy goodness, making them taste freshly baked!

Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pecans for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting pecans, look for nuts that are plump and free of dark spots or blemishes. Toasting them enhances their flavor, so choose raw pecans that you can toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until they are fragrant and golden brown. Be sure to let them cool before adding them to your dough.

How should I store my Butter Pecan Cookies, and how long will they last?
You can store your Butter Pecan Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps to maintain their soft and chewy texture. If you prefer a longer storage option, you can refrigerate them for up to 10 days, although the cookies may become firmer.

Can you freeze Butter Pecan Cookies? If so, how?
Yes! You can freeze your cookies for up to 3 months. First, ensure they are completely cooled. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a sealed freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore that just-baked softness.

What should I do if my cookies don’t seem to rise properly?
If your cookies aren’t puffing up as expected, they might be a bit too dense. Make sure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh, as expired leavening agents can hinder rising. Also, don’t overmix your dough, as this can develop gluten and lead to denser cookies. If all else fails, gently press your cookies down with the back of a spoon right after baking to help them through!

Are these cookies safe for kids and do they contain common allergens?
Yes, these Butter Pecan Cookies are family-friendly but do contain common allergens. They include gluten (from all-purpose flour), dairy (from butter), and nuts (pecans). If you’re baking for someone with a nut allergy, you can substitute the pecans with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a delicious, allergen-friendly treat.