Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my new favorite treat: Pecan Pie Cookies! If you’ve ever had that classic Southern pecan pie, you know how irresistible it is—sweet, nutty, and just plain delicious. Now, imagine taking all those delightful flavors and transforming them into cookies! Yup, it’s a sweet miracle, and I can’t wait to share this recipe with you.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a holiday baking extravaganza with my family. My aunt, the queen of cookie recipes, introduced it, and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it ever since. It’s like biting into a little slice of heaven right between those crunchy pecans and gooey corn syrup. Perfect for sharing—or hoarding all to yourself! Let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to bake some pecan pie cookies that will leave your friends begging for the recipe.
What’s in Pecan Pie Cookies?
– Unsalted Butter: The base of our cookie! I always prefer unsalted butter to control the saltiness of my baked goods. It gives these cookies a rich, creamy texture.
– Brown Sugar: Adds a deep molasses flavor that’s essential for that pecan pie taste. Be sure to pack it tightly in your measuring cup!
– Granulated Sugar: For sweetness! The combination of both sugars gives just the right amount of chew.
– Egg: This acts as the binder. It helps keep the cookies moist and gives them a lovely structure.
– Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla brings out all those sweet flavors. I always use pure vanilla for the best taste.
– All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our cookie dough! It’s what gives it that perfect cookie texture.
– Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise a little and gives them that soft center we all love.
– Salt: Just a pinch! It enhances all the sweet flavors, making each bite more delicious.
– Chopped Pecans: The star ingredient! They add that signature nutty flavor and fantastic crunch.
– Corn Syrup: This liquid gold adds sweetness and that pecan pie fill-in that makes these cookies truly special.
– Chopped Pecans for Topping: A little extra crunchy goodness on top, plus they look pretty!
Are Pecan Pie Cookies Good for You?
Well, let’s be real. These aren’t exactly health food. But who says we can’t indulge once in a while?
Pecans: They are loaded with healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them a heart-healthy choice! That said, they are calorie-dense, so moderation is key—especially if you’re going back for seconds (which you definitely will).
Corn Syrup: It’s primarily just sugar, so it offers quick energy but let’s be mindful about how often we consume it!
Enjoy these gorgeous cookies in moderate servings, and you’ll find that they’re perfect for a sweet snack, dessert, or a cozy gathering with friends!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup corn syrup
– 1 cup chopped pecans for topping
**Servings:** Makes about 24 cookies.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Oh, the smell of sugar and butter blended together is pure bliss!
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Look at that fluffy powder—trust the process!
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix; a little flour speck is totally okay!
6. Fold in the chopped pecans to the cookie dough. Your hands might get a little sticky—consider it extra love in each cookie!
7. Using a cookie scoop, place rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. In a small bowl, mix the corn syrup with a little bit of the remaining chopped pecans. Gently spoon about a teaspoon of this mixture onto the center of each cookie.
9. Top each cookie with one or two whole pecans for garnish.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown—keep an eye on them, as ovens vary!
11. Remove from oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This can be the hardest part—waiting!
Sweet Tips & Twists for Your Pecan Pie Cookies!
– Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Though let’s be honest, they probably won’t last that long!
– For an extra touch, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies before serving. Who can say no to chocolate, right?
– Looking for a twist? Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to your dough for a warm autumn spice.
I cannot stress enough how fabulous these Pecan Pie Cookies are. They are the perfect blend of flavors and textures that remind me of my family gatherings. I just know you’re going to love them just as much as I do! So gather your ingredients and get ready to bring some sweet joy to your kitchen. Happy baking!
