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Butter pecan cookies are the perfect balance of rich, buttery flavor and crunchy pecans, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. These cookies are not just your average dessert; they are an experience, delivering warmth and comfort in every bite. The combination of toasted pecans and the sweetness of toffee bits (if added) creates a satisfying contrast of textures.

What sets these cookies apart is the depth of flavor—thanks to the cinnamon, vanilla, and toasted pecans—each ingredient complements the other perfectly. Whether you are baking for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies bring a homemade touch that’s hard to beat. If you love the flavor of butter pecan ice cream, you’re going to be delighted by how these cookies taste.

This recipe doesn’t require any complicated techniques, and it’s easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these butter pecan cookies will make you feel like a pro. The warm scent of cookies baking will fill your home and create the kind of cozy atmosphere everyone loves.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Balance of Flavors

The butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon create a perfectly sweet base, while the toasted pecans and optional toffee bits give an extra crunch and depth of flavor that make every bite special.

2. Easy to Make

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels. No need for complicated techniques—just mix, bake, and enjoy.

3. Versatile

You can easily tweak the recipe by adding or omitting ingredients, such as the toffee bits or different nuts, to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

4. Ideal for Any Occasion

These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, family get-togethers, or just a cozy treat for yourself. They’re easy to transport, making them a great choice for bake sales or gift-giving.

5. Comforting and Nostalgic

The combination of butter, pecans, and cinnamon gives these cookies a warm, comforting flavor that brings back memories of cozy afternoons and homemade baking.

Ingredients

Butter (unsalted, melted, and cooled)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs (large)
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Cinnamon powder
Cornstarch
Baking soda
Baking powder
Pecans (roughly chopped, unsalted, preferably toasted)
Toffee bits (optional)

Variations

Add chocolate chips: If you’re a fan of chocolate, adding some semi-sweet chocolate chips will give a wonderful contrast to the nuttiness of the pecans.
Swap in different nuts: If you don’t have pecans, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts for a different flavor profile.
Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free version of this cookie.
Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar by a couple of tablespoons or omit the toffee bits.

How to Make Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to ensure the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cinnamon powder, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.

Step 5: Add the Pecans and Toffee Bits

Fold in the chopped toasted pecans and, if using, the toffee bits. This adds texture and flavor to the dough.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Butter temperature: Make sure your melted butter is cooled to room temperature. Hot butter can cause the dough to spread too much while baking.
Chill the dough: If you prefer thicker cookies, you can chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help them hold their shape.
Toasting pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor, so try not to skip this step. Just toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant.
Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. They should look slightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center.

How to Serve

These butter pecan cookies are perfect on their own, but they can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or milk. You can also serve them as a delightful addition to a dessert table at a party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will keep them fresh and chewy.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a ziplock bag or airtight container. Frozen cookies will last up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave the cookies for a few seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to get them warm and slightly crispy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

It’s best to use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the recipe. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt accordingly.

2. Can I make these cookies without toffee bits?

Yes, toffee bits are optional. The cookies will still be delicious without them.

3. How do I know when the cookies are done?

Look for the edges to turn golden brown while the center remains soft. They will continue to cook slightly as they cool.

4. Can I use roasted pecans instead of toasted?

Yes, roasted pecans will work, but toasted pecans bring a fresher, nuttier flavor to the cookies.

5. Can I make these cookies with a hand mixer?

Yes, you can use a hand mixer, but make sure not to overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients.

6. What if I don’t have cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can omit it, though the cookies may be slightly less chewy.

Yes, you can freeze the dough. Just scoop it into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to a bag for long-term storage.

8. Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can use whole wheat flour, but it may result in denser cookies. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.

9. How can I make the cookies thicker?

Chill the dough before baking, and be sure not to overmix the dough. This will help them maintain a thicker shape during baking.

10. Can I substitute other nuts?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute for pecans.

Conclusion

Butter pecan cookies offer the perfect blend of buttery richness, crunchy pecans, and a dash of sweetness, making them an irresistible treat. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, these cookies are ideal for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re making them for a special event or just enjoying a cozy moment at home, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to get creative with variations, and enjoy a warm batch of these delightful cookies!

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