🍪🥧 Pecan Pie Cookies

Introduction

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of pecan pie with the portability and ease of cookies, then this recipe is for you! I made these Pecan Pie Cookies for a family gathering, and they were a huge hit. Everyone loved the delicate cookie base, which has a slight crispness that perfectly complements the sticky, sweet pecan filling. It was the ideal way to enjoy the flavors of classic pecan pie without the fuss of a pie crust. The cookies are quick to prepare and bake, making them perfect for last-minute desserts, holiday gatherings, or just as an everyday indulgence. Whether served with a hot cup of tea or as a sweet snack, these cookies are guaranteed to please.

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 to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This may take about 2-3 minutes of mixing.
3. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and continue to mix until well combined.
4. Add the flour and salt, stirring until just combined. The dough will be slightly crumbly but should come together when pressed.
5. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls 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 dough ball.
6. In a separate bowl, prepare the pecan filling by combining the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is sticky and everything is well combined.
7. Spoon a small amount of the pecan filling into the indentation of each cookie dough ball, filling it to the top.
8. Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as ovens may vary.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 18 cookies
Calories per serving: 120

Preparation Time

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

How to Serve

• Serve these cookies as a sweet dessert after dinner.
• Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Place them on a cookie platter for a holiday or special event.
• These cookies are also perfect for gift-giving in cute boxes or tins.

Additional Tips

1. Butter Temperature: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough texture.
2. Chill the Dough: If you find the dough too sticky to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to make it easier to scoop and roll.
3. Pecan Toasting: For an extra depth of flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over low heat for 3-5 minutes before chopping them.
4. Corn Syrup Alternatives: If you don’t have light corn syrup, you can substitute it with maple syrup or honey for a different flavor.
5. Freezing Cookie Dough: You can freeze the dough balls before baking. Just freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from the freezer when you’re ready!

Recipe Variations

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a twist on the traditional pecan pie flavor, mix in some mini chocolate chips to the filling or on top of the cookies before baking.
• Use Other Nuts: Instead of pecans, try walnuts or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
• Vegan Version: Replace the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use a flax egg in place of the egg yolk.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these cookies on a dessert table at a party, alongside other holiday treats.
• Package them in gift bags for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent treat.
• Serve as part of a Thanksgiving or Christmas spread to add variety to your dessert options.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 2-3 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
   Yes, but you may want to reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.
2. Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup?
   Yes, but dark corn syrup will give the filling a richer, more robust flavor.
3. How can I make the dough easier to handle?
   If the dough is too crumbly, try chilling it for a few minutes before rolling it into balls.
4. Can I make these cookies without eggs?
   Yes, use a flax egg or other egg substitute to make the cookies egg-free.
5. How do I know when these cookies are done baking?
   The cookies are done when the edges are golden and the filling is bubbly.
6. Can I add more sugar to the filling for extra sweetness?
   You can, but the recipe already contains a good balance of sweetness. Be cautious not to make it too sweet.
7. What should I do if I don’t have parchment paper?
   You can lightly grease your baking sheet or use a silicone baking mat instead.
8. Can I use roasted pecans instead of raw?
   Yes, roasted pecans work just as well and can add an extra layer of flavor to the cookies.
9. How do I keep the filling from spilling out?
   Make sure to spoon the filling into the dough indentation gently and avoid overfilling.
10. Can I double this recipe?
    Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake the cookies in batches if necessary.

Conclusion

These Pecan Pie Cookies combine the best of both worlds: the richness of pecan pie and the convenience of cookies. They are the perfect treat for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. With their buttery, soft cookie base and sweet, sticky pecan filling, these cookies will undoubtedly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you make them as a quick dessert or prepare them for a festive occasion, they’re sure to impress.

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