If you’re on the lookout for a sweet treat that perfectly combines the buttery richness of cookies with the classic, nutty goodness of pecan pie, you have to try this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe. These delightful cookies capture all the cozy, comforting flavors of traditional pecan pie but in a perfectly bite-sized form. With a tender, buttery base and a luscious, cinnamon-spiced pecan filling, they’re guaranteed to become an instant favorite whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving a little indulgence. Plus, this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe is surprisingly simple to make, allowing you to impress friends and family with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe. The list may be straightforward, but each element plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and helps create that tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie texture.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds deep molasses sweetness that gives these cookies their warm, caramel notes.
- 1 egg yolk: Binds the dough and contributes to a soft, chewy bite.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its fragrant sweetness.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation that holds everything together without overpowering the delicate balance.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and brightens the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Gives the distinctive nutty crunch essential to pecan pie essence.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for filling): Sweetens the filling with that characteristic caramel flavor.
- 2 tbsp corn syrup or maple syrup: Creates gooey, sticky texture reminiscent of classic pecan pie filling.
- 2 tbsp heavy cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the filling.
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon: Sprinkles a warm spice note that complements the nuts perfectly.
- Pinch of salt (for filling): Enhances all the filling ingredients and balances sweetness.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This sets the perfect stage to bake cookies that won’t stick and will come out with beautifully golden edges.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter together with 1/2 cup brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key because it incorporates air into the dough, helping your cookies achieve a delicate crumb.
Step 3: Add the Egg Yolk and Vanilla
Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The egg yolk adds richness and depth to the cookie base while the vanilla brings all the flavors together in harmony.
Step 4: Combine Flour and Salt
Gradually add the flour and salt into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to over-mix here, as you want to keep the cookie tender, not tough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookie Dough
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then place them evenly spaced on the lined baking sheet. Using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon, press gently into the center of each ball to create a small well—this is where the luscious pecan filling will go.
Step 6: Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling
In a small bowl, whisk together the chopped pecans with the brown sugar, corn syrup (or maple syrup), heavy cream, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This creamy, flavorful mixture captures all the irresistible qualities of classic pecan pie.
Step 7: Fill and Bake
Spoon about one teaspoon of the pecan filling into each cookie indentation. Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, just until the cookie edges turn a lovely golden color and the filling has set.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling step helps them hold their shape and texture perfectly.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Top these cookies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for extra sweetness and a festive look. You can also add a few chopped pecans on top of the filling after baking for added crunch and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Serve your Pecan Pie Cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an elevated dessert experience. They also pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, spiced chai, or even a bold black tea to cut through the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday gatherings or special occasions, arrange your Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe on a festive platter with seasonal accents like cinnamon sticks, dried orange slices, or fresh cranberries. You could also sandwich them with a little cream cheese frosting or caramel sauce for an irresistible twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to five days, making it easy to enjoy a little treat whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a tray to freeze solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. Alternatively, freeze baked cookies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to indulge, thaw to room temperature or gently warm for that fresh-baked feel.
Reheating
If you want to bring back that just-baked warmth, pop your cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, or microwave them for 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the cookie and revives the gooey filling perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use maple syrup instead of corn syrup in this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! Maple syrup is a wonderful natural alternative that adds a subtle maple flavor while still providing the stickiness and sweetness needed for the pecan filling.
How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is just softened, not melted, and keep the dough chilled if it feels too soft before baking. Also, spacing the cookie balls properly on your baking sheet helps them bake evenly without merging.
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used if you prefer, but pecans are traditional for that authentic pecan pie taste that this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe celebrates.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
The recipe uses all-purpose flour, so they are not gluten-free as is. You can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture and rise.
How do I make these cookies less sweet?
To temper the sweetness, reduce the brown sugar slightly in the dough or filling. Adding a bit more salt to the filling can also help balance the flavors to your liking.
Final Thoughts
These Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe are a delightful way to enjoy a beloved classic in a new, fun form. Their buttery texture combined with the rich, gooey pecan filling is nothing short of magical. I can’t wait for you to try baking them yourself and watch how quickly they disappear—trust me, this recipe will become a treasured go-to for cozy dessert moments!
Print
Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously buttery Pecan Pie Cookies that combine a soft, tender cookie base with a sweet and nutty pecan pie–style filling. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you’re craving a bite-sized treat with the classic flavors of pecan pie in a cookie form.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
Pecan Filling
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp corn syrup or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined, which adds to the cookie’s tender texture.
- Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract thoroughly to bind the dough and enhance the flavor.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt to the bowl. Stir gently until a soft dough forms without overmixing for optimal texture.
- Shape Dough Balls: Roll the dough into 1-inch diameter balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Create Indentations: Using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon, gently press an indent into the center of each dough ball to hold the filling.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans, 1/4 cup brown sugar, corn syrup or maple syrup, heavy cream, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to mix all flavors evenly.
- Fill Cookies: Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of the pecan filling into each cookie indentation, ensuring even distribution.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown and the centers are set but still soft.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer a softer cookie, reduce baking time by a minute or two and monitor closely.
- Substitute maple syrup for corn syrup if you prefer a more natural sweetener.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Chilling the dough before baking can help prevent spreading and maintain cookie shape.
