Pecan Pie Cookies

Introduction

I recently had the pleasure of making a batch of Pecan Pie Cookies for a family gathering, and let me tell you, they were a hit! As soon as I set them on the dessert table, they seemed to vanish before I even had a chance to grab one for myself. These cookies are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor and festivity, making them perfect for any occasion. The combination of a buttery cookie base and a rich, gooey pecan filling is simply irresistible. If you’re looking for a delightful treat to impress your family and friends, look no further!

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Pecan Filling:

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. The dough will be slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
5. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indentation in the center of each ball.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the filling is sticky and combined.
7. Spoon a small amount of the pecan filling into each indentation, filling to the top.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Calories per cookie: 120

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Arrange on a decorative plate for a festive touch.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience.
• Pack in gift boxes for friends and family.
• Store in a cookie jar for easy snacking.

Additional Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a better texture.
2. Chop Pecans Finely: For a more uniform filling, chop the pecans into small pieces. This will help them blend well with the other ingredients.
3. Indentations: Make sure to create a deep enough indentation in the cookies to hold the filling, but be careful not to break through the bottom.
4. Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy.
5. Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Nut Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the cookie dough or sprinkle them on top of the pecan filling before baking.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
• Vegan Option: Replace the butter with coconut oil and the egg yolk with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water).
• Spiced Up: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or ginger into the cookie dough or filling for a seasonal twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these cookies warm right out of the oven for a gooey center.
• Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Pair with seasonal fruit like fresh apples or pears for a refreshing side.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough. Simply form the balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
• Storing Baked Cookies: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them to maintain freshness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough and fill it with pecan filling ahead of time. Freeze the unbaked cookies and bake them fresh when needed.

2. How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for lightly golden edges. The centers may appear soft but will firm up as they cool.

3. Can I substitute the corn syrup?
Yes, you can use maple syrup or honey as alternatives, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

4. Are these cookies suitable for children?
Absolutely! They are sweet and nutty, perfect for kids, but be cautious if there are nut allergies.

5. How can I enhance the flavor?
Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie base or filling for a festive touch.

6. Can I use different nuts?
Yes, walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes for pecans.

7. What’s the best way to serve these cookies?
They are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them warm with ice cream or drizzled with caramel.

8. How many cookies does this recipe make?
The recipe yields about 24 cookies, depending on the size of the dough balls.

9. How should I store leftover cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe for larger gatherings.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the best elements of a classic pecan pie with the convenience of cookies. With their buttery base and gooey filling, they are sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a holiday, or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies are a festive and delicious choice. I highly recommend giving this recipe a try; your family and friends will thank you!

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