Chewy Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies

Introduction

Baking has always been a cherished activity in my home, and there’s something uniquely comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. This particular recipe for Chewy Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies has become a family favorite. My kids eagerly await the moment they come out of the oven, and there’s rarely a batch that lasts more than a day. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and the perfect chewy texture makes these cookies irresistible. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon treat or a late-night snack, they are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (not melted)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup pecans, coarsely chopped

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a nonstick silicone mat. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using a stand mixer or hand mixer until well combined and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your cookies, so take your time to mix thoroughly.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract into the butter mixture, mixing until fully blended. The addition of eggs helps bind the ingredients together and adds moisture to the cookies.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing well after each addition until fully combined. Make sure not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Fold in Chocolate and Nuts

Gently stir in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The chocolate and nuts add a wonderful texture and flavor to each bite.

Chill the Dough (Optional)

For thicker, chewy cookies, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape while baking. If you prefer thinner, crisper cookies, you can bake immediately.

Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scoop. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook as they cool.

Cool and Store

Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them set properly. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—if they last that long!

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm from the oven for the best texture.
• Pair with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee.
• Consider dusting with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
• Serve alongside ice cream for a delicious dessert combo.
• Pack in lunchboxes for a sweet afternoon treat.

Additional Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
2. Measuring Flour: Avoid packing the flour into the measuring cup; instead, spoon it in lightly and level off with a knife for accurate measurements.
3. Nut Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try walnuts or even omit the nuts entirely.
4. Mix-Ins: Feel free to add dried fruit, like cranberries or raisins, for an added flavor dimension.
5. Storage Tips: For longer freshness, consider freezing the cookies in an airtight container.

Recipe Variations

• Dark Chocolate Version: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free.
• Nut-Free: Omit the pecans for a nut-free cookie, or substitute sunflower seeds for crunch.
• Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavor.
• M&M Cookies: Replace chocolate chips with M&M candies for a fun twist, perfect for kids.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a simple dessert after dinner.
• Pair with a fruit salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve at gatherings, potlucks, or cookie exchanges.
• Include as part of a dessert platter for a festive occasion.
• Use as a topping for ice cream sundaes.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing Cookie Dough: You can freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storing Baked Cookies: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

• Yes, just reduce the added salt in the recipe.

1. What if I don’t have cream cheese?

• Cream cheese is not used in this recipe. The butter and eggs provide enough moisture.

1. Can I substitute brown sugar for white sugar?

• Yes, you can substitute all or part of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.

1. Why are my cookies flat?

• Flat cookies may result from melted butter, too much sugar, or not enough flour.

1. Can I use old chocolate chips?

• If the chocolate chips are still within their expiry date and smell fine, they can be used.

1. What is the best way to store cookies?

• Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.

1. Can I make this dough ahead of time?

• Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.

1. How can I make my cookies chewier?

• Refrigerate the dough before baking and avoid overbaking the cookies.

1. Can I use a different type of nut?

• Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts.

1. Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
   • Yes, both the dough and baked cookies can be frozen for later enjoyment.

Conclusion

Chewy Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies are not just a treat; they are a comforting hug in cookie form. Their combination of rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and a soft, chewy texture makes them a perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a school event, or just for yourself, these cookies are sure to bring joy and satisfaction. With easy preparation and a few simple ingredients, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again. Enjoy the process, and more importantly, enjoy every delicious bite!

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