The Ultimate Butter Pecan Cookie Recipe: A Deliciously Easy Guide
Are you ready to bake the most irresistible butter pecan cookies? This recipe is your ticket to buttery, nutty, and utterly delightful cookies that will vanish in a flash. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet incredibly rewarding recipe.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes approximately 24 generously sized cookies. Adjust quantities as needed for your baking needs.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: The foundation of our buttery goodness! Make sure it's nice and soft for easy creaming.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: For that perfect balance of sweetness.
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds depth of flavor and moisture.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The structural element of our cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: For a light and airy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 cup pecan halves, toasted: The star of the show! Toasting them brings out their nutty flavor.
Instructions for Perfectly Baked Butter Pecan Cookies:
Let's get baking! Follow these steps for perfectly delicious cookies.
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Let the pecans cool completely before adding them to the dough. This prevents the butter from melting too quickly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer for best results. This step is crucial for creating a tender crumb.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 5: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Stir in Pecans
- Gently fold in the toasted pecans.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Leave some space between each cookie for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Extra Delicious Butter Pecan Cookies:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better your cookies will taste.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies.
- Chill the dough (optional): For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Experiment with different pecans: Try using a mix of pecan halves and pieces for added texture.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the cookies before baking adds a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these warm cookies with a glass of cold milk or your favorite ice cream for an unforgettable treat. They also make a wonderful addition to any holiday gathering or cookie exchange.
Enjoy your perfectly baked Butter Pecan Cookies! Let me know in the comments how yours turn out.
