Pecan Pie Cookies

Pecan Pie Cookies: Your New Holiday Favorite!

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Nothing says fall quite like the rich, buttery flavor of pecan pie. But sometimes, you want all that warm, nutty goodness without the effort of making a full pie. Enter pecan pie cookies—a bite-sized twist on the classic dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings, or just a little sweet indulgence. These cookies are everything you love about pecan pie in a soft, chewy cookie form, making them easier to eat and even easier to share!

These pecan pie cookies have a soft and buttery base, with a gooey pecan filling that’s both sweet and slightly crunchy. If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that will impress without requiring a lot of fuss, these are the ones for you!

Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Cookies

1. Chill the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough before baking helps the cookies hold their shape and keeps them from spreading too much, ensuring they stay thick and chewy.
2. Use Fresh Pecans: Fresh pecans have the best flavor and texture, giving your cookies that authentic, nutty taste. If you have the time, lightly toast the pecans before adding them for even more depth of flavor.
3. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be set but still soft in the center. Overbaking can make them too hard once they cool.
4. Cool Completely Before Serving: The pecan filling needs time to set after baking. Letting the cookies cool for a few minutes will make them easier to handle and eat.

Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe

Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients

Cookie Dough:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt

Pecan Pie Filling:

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup light corn syrup or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Cover and chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
3. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup (or maple syrup), melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.
4. Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop 1 ½-tablespoon balls of dough, placing them about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press an indent in the center of each dough ball.
5. Add the Filling: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the pecan filling into the indentation of each cookie.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a substitute for corn syrup?
A: Yes, you can use maple syrup or honey for a slightly different flavor, or agave syrup for a similar texture.

Q: How should I store these cookies?
A: Once cooled, store the pecan pie cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month—just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing.

Q: Do I need to chill the dough?
A: While chilling isn’t required, it’s recommended because it helps the cookies hold their shape and develop a better texture.

Q: Can I make the dough or filling ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the dough up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The filling can be prepared and refrigerated as well—just give it a good stir before using.

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just be aware that the texture may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

Pecan pie cookies are a delightful, indulgent way to bring those classic pecan pie flavors to your dessert spread without all the hassle. They’re perfect for the holidays, and their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for gatherings. Plus, they’re easy enough to make on a weeknight if you’re craving something extra special!

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