Butter Pecan Cookies

Introduction

There’s something wonderfully comforting about baking cookies, especially when it comes to Butter Pecan Cookies. The moment I take a bite, I’m transported back to family gatherings and cozy afternoons spent in the kitchen. The rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans combined with a buttery crisp texture makes these cookies irresistible. Whenever I bake them, my family gathers around, eager to grab a warm cookie right off the cooling rack. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday party or simply a sweet treat after dinner.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious Butter Pecan Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups pecans, toasted and chopped

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Butter Pecan Cookies:

1. Toast the Pecans:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast for about 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant, stirring halfway through to prevent burning. Once done, remove from the oven, let them cool, and chop them coarsely.
2. Make the Cookie Dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the toasted, chopped pecans.
3. Chill the Dough (optional but recommended):
   For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour. This step helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
4. Bake the Cookies:
   If you haven’t already, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) again. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop the dough into balls, about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of dough each, and place them on the baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are just set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Serve:
   Enjoy your Butter Pecan Cookies with a glass of milk or alongside a cup of coffee or tea. These cookies are buttery, nutty, and perfect for any occasion!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Calories: Approximately 150 calories per cookie
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 80mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes (plus chilling time if desired)

How to Serve

Here are a few ideas for serving your Butter Pecan Cookies:

• With Milk: The classic pairing for cookies.
• With Coffee or Tea: A delightful afternoon treat.
• As a Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• With Whipped Cream: Top them for an elegant touch.
• On a Platter: Perfect for parties or gatherings.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Skip Toasting the Pecans: Toasting enhances the flavor and adds a nice crunch.
2. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the granulated sugar slightly.
3. Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Cookies can go from perfect to overbaked quickly, so watch them closely.
4. Experiment with Flavors: Add chocolate chips or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
5. Store Properly: Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chip Butter Pecan Cookies: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the dough for a rich twist.
• Maple Pecan Cookies: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a delightful flavor change.
• Spiced Butter Pecan Cookies: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for warmth.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• No-Egg Cookies: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
• Make a Cookie Sandwich: Use buttercream or frosting between two cookies.
• Create a Cookie Bar: Offer an assortment of cookies at parties.
• With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh fruit for a balanced treat.
• As Party Favors: Package cookies in cellophane bags for guests to take home.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Freezing: To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use salted butter?
   Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.
2. Can I use other nuts?
   Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work well too.
3. What if I don’t have brown sugar?
   You can substitute with an equal amount of granulated sugar and add a tablespoon of molasses.
4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before baking.
5. How can I tell when the cookies are done?
   The edges should be golden brown, and the centers will look slightly underbaked.
6. Do these cookies spread while baking?
   If chilled, they will spread less, resulting in thicker cookies.
7. What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
   Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
8. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
   Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months; just thaw before baking.
9. How do I prevent the cookies from being too flat?
   Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough if necessary.
10. Can I add chocolate to the dough?
    Yes, you can mix in chocolate chips or chunks for added flavor.

Conclusion

Butter Pecan Cookies are a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Their rich, nutty flavor combined with a buttery crisp texture makes them a favorite in our home. Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or served at a gathering, these cookies are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and start baking—your family will thank you for it!

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