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Butter Pecan Cookies

Butter Pecan Cookies

Butter Pecan Cookies deliver a rich, buttery flavor combined with toasted pecans for a perfect crunchy texture. These homemade cookies balance sweetness and nutty notes, making them an ideal treat for any occasion from casual snacks to festive celebrations. Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, they come with versatile variations and store well to enjoy days after baking.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Sugars

  • 1 cup (220g) brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups (312g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Add-ins

  • 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

Instructions

  1. Toast the Pecans: Begin by toasting chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned. This enhances their nutty flavor and crunch.
  2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened unsalted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until creamy and fluffy. This aerates the mixture creating a tender cookie texture.
  3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well combined, helping bind ingredients and intensifying flavor.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt separately. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, gently folding until just combined to avoid overmixing and keep cookies tender.
  5. Fold in Toasted Pecans: Carefully fold the toasted pecans into the dough, ensuring even distribution for a perfect crunch in every bite.
  6. Bake to Golden Perfection: Scoop dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them adequately. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and smooth dough consistency.
  • Don’t overbake; remove cookies when edges turn golden to keep centers tender and chewy.
  • Chop pecans uniformly to ensure even baking and improved texture.
  • If time allows, chill dough for 30 minutes to intensify flavors and reduce spreading during baking.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
  • Toast pecans carefully to avoid burning, which can make cookies bitter.

Nutrition

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