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Buttery and Delicious: The Perfect Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe
When it comes to comfort food in the form of baked goods, few things compare to a classic Butter Pecan Cookie. These soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies combine the rich, nutty flavor of pecans with the indulgent buttery goodness that makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these Butter Pecan Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
In this article, we’ll explore the delightful combination of flavors and textures that make butter pecan cookies so special, as well as guide you through an easy recipe for creating them yourself.
Why You’ll Love Butter Pecan Cookies
1. The Perfect Balance of Flavors:
These cookies are all about balance. The butter gives the cookies a rich, smooth flavor, while the pecans provide a delightful crunch and nutty depth. The combination of sweetness from the cookie dough and the savory, slightly toasted flavor of the pecans makes these cookies a crowd-pleaser.
2. Soft and Chewy Texture:
Unlike some cookies that can turn out crisp or hard, butter pecan cookies have a wonderfully soft and chewy texture. The butter creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth consistency, and the chopped pecans give just the right amount of texture contrast without being overwhelming.
3. Simple Yet Delicious:
The ingredients needed to make butter pecan cookies are simple and accessible, but the result is a cookie that feels fancy and indulgent. They’re the perfect treat for all occasions, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea or coffee.
4. Versatile for Additions and Variations:
While butter and pecans are the star ingredients, this recipe can easily be modified to suit your preferences. You can add chocolate chips, a dash of cinnamon, or even a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the flavor profile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make your own batch of these scrumptious Butter Pecan Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup pecans, chopped (you can toast them lightly for extra flavor)
- Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks for an extra treat
How to Make Butter Pecan Cookies
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Toast the Pecans (Optional):
While not absolutely necessary, toasting the pecans before adding them to the cookie dough can enhance their flavor, making them more fragrant and nutty. Place the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or stand mixer. Mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
5. Stir in the Pecans:
Once the dough comes together, gently fold in the chopped toasted pecans (and optional chocolate chips, if using). This adds texture and flavor while ensuring the pecans are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Scoop and Shape the Dough:
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. For a slightly more polished look, gently flatten each dough ball with your fingers or the back of a spoon. This helps them bake evenly and gives them a slightly more cookie-like appearance.
