Butter Pecan Cookies: 180 Calorie Treat

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Butter Pecan Cookies have always been my go-to for a comforting, nostalgic treat. I remember my grandmother baking these every fall, the sweet, nutty aroma filling our entire house. Now, I’ve perfected my own version of these Homemade Butter Pecan Cookies, and honestly, they’re even better than I remembered! Knowing how to make Butter Pecan Cookies that are perfectly chewy and packed with toasted pecan flavor is a skill I treasure. The combination of browned butter and those crunchy nuts is pure magic. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love These Butter Pecan Cookies

You’re going to adore these cookies for so many reasons. They’re a fantastic way to bring a little sweetness into your day!

• Incredible taste: The combination of browned butter and toasted pecans is pure nutty bliss.
• Quick prep time: These Easy Butter Pecan Cookies come together in under 20 minutes.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour these classic treats.
• Budget-friendly: Made with simple pantry staples, they’re an affordable indulgence.
• Perfect texture: Achieve wonderfully Chewy Butter Pecan Cookies with my simple tips.
• Versatile: Great for holidays, bake sales, or just because!
• Satisfyingly nutty: The toasted pecans truly make these cookies shine.

Butter Pecan Cookie Ingredients

Gathering the right Butter Pecan Cookie Ingredients is the first step to baking perfection. You’ll need a few key players to get that signature nutty flavor. The star, of course, is the butter – we’ll be browning it for a depth of flavor you just can’t beat. This process is crucial for those delicious Nutty Pecan Butter Cookies.

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter – browning this is key!
• 1 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness and structure
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar – adds moisture and a caramel note
• 2 large eggs – room temperature is best for emulsification
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances all the flavors
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – the base of our cookie dough
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – for leavening and a little spread
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted – the essential crunchy, nutty element

How to Make Butter Pecan Cookies

Whipping up a batch of these delightful Butter Pecan Cookies is easier than you might think, and the aroma alone is worth it! Get ready to impress yourself and everyone around you with these homemade beauties.

1. Step 1: Begin by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Keep a close eye on it and stir occasionally until it turns a lovely golden brown and smells wonderfully nutty. This browning process is crucial for developing the rich flavor in our Butter Pecan Cookies. Remove it from the heat and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the slightly cooled browned butter, granulated sugar, and packed light brown sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy – this creates a fantastic base for our cookies.
3. Step 3: Beat in the large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for that classic sweet aroma.
4. Step 4: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your leavening agents are evenly distributed.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the large bowl. Mix everything together until it’s just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
6. Step 6: Now for the star of the show: stir in the 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted. This is where the magic happens, giving your Butter Pecan Cookie Recipe that signature crunch and nutty depth.
7. Step 7: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto baking sheets that have been lined with parchment paper. I like to leave a bit of space between them as they’ll spread slightly.
8. Step 8: Bake in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to be a beautiful golden brown. For extra chewy cookies, you can even pull them out a minute or two earlier.
9. Step 9: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. This allows them to set up a bit before you transfer them. Once slightly firm, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your perfectly Toasted Pecan Butter Cookies!

Pro Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Cookies

Want to elevate your cookie game? These Butter Pecan Cookie Baking Tips will ensure your cookies are absolutely perfect every time. I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make all the difference in achieving that incredible flavor and texture. For more baking advice, you can check out my baking philosophy.

• Always toast your pecans! This step is non-negotiable for unlocking their full nutty flavor.
• Don’t skip browning the butter; it adds a depth of flavor that is truly transformative.
• For extra chewy cookies, slightly underbake them and let them finish setting on the hot baking sheet.
• Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes if you find it too sticky to handle.

What’s the secret to perfect Butter Pecan Cookies?

The secret truly lies in browning the butter and toasting the pecans. This two-step process creates incredibly rich, nutty flavors that make these cookies stand out as truly Nutty Pecan Butter Cookies. Browning butter is a technique that can be applied to many recipes for added depth, as discussed in this guide.

Can I make Butter Pecan Cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Just drop and bake as usual, adding a minute or two to the baking time if the dough is very cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Butter Pecan Cookies?

Avoid overmixing the dough after adding the flour, as this can make cookies tough. Also, don’t forget to toast your pecans; raw pecans won’t give you that signature flavor. For more on common baking mistakes, you can refer to this resource.

Best Ways to Serve Butter Pecan Cookies

These delightful Butter Pecan Cookies are wonderful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a few other treats. They’re perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or a special dessert spread. Imagine serving these alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream – pure heaven! You could also try them with a drizzle of caramel or even as part of a cookie platter featuring other favorites like Pecan Butterscotch Cookies or a classic Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies. They’re versatile enough to be the star or a delicious supporting player!

Nutrition Facts for Butter Pecan Cookies

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per cookie. These numbers are helpful for understanding the profile of these delicious treats. For more information on cookie nutrition, you can consult this guide.

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Butter Pecan Cookies

Properly storing your delicious Butter Pecan Cookies ensures they stay fresh and tasty, just like the Old Fashioned Butter Pecan Cookies you remember. Once they’ve cooled completely on a wire rack, transfer them to an airtight container. For short-term storage, they’ll keep well at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep these homemade delights around for longer, freezing is your best bet. Wrap them well in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they’ll stay perfectly preserved in the freezer for up to 3 months. You can find more storage tips on our site.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply let the frozen cookies thaw overnight in the refrigerator, or warm them gently in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes until they’re just heated through and wonderfully fragrant.

Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Pecan Cookies

What are Butter Pecan Cookies?

Butter Pecan Cookies are a classic cookie that gets its distinctive flavor from browned butter and toasted pecans. They are known for their rich, nutty taste and often have a wonderfully chewy texture, making them a favorite for many. They really highlight the delicious combination of butter and nuts.

Why are Butter Pecan Cookies popular?

Their popularity stems from the irresistible combination of comforting flavors and textures. The nutty, slightly caramel notes from browned butter and toasted pecans are deeply satisfying. They evoke a sense of nostalgia for many people, reminding them of homemade treats and special occasions. Plus, they’re relatively easy to make! For more on the history of cookies, check out this article.

Can I use butterscotch chips in my Butter Pecan Cookies?

Absolutely! Adding butterscotch chips is a fantastic way to introduce another layer of complementary flavor. It creates a delightful Pecan Butterscotch Cookie variation that’s wonderfully sweet and caramelly. Just fold them in with the pecans in Step 6 of the recipe.

Are these cookies considered old fashioned?

Yes, this recipe offers a wonderful taste of Old Fashioned Butter Pecan Cookies. The use of browned butter and simple, high-quality ingredients like toasted pecans gives them that timeless, comforting flavor that many associate with traditional baking. You can learn more about our baking approach here.

Variations of Butter Pecan Cookies You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic Butter Pecan Cookie Recipe, why not get creative? There are so many delicious ways to switch things up! For a more delicate, crumbly texture, try turning these into Butter Pecan Shortbread Cookies by reducing the leavening slightly and chilling the dough longer. If you love that deep, rich flavor, you can really lean into the browned butter aspect, making what some might call Brown Butter Pecan Cookies, by ensuring your butter is perfectly browned and cooled. You could also add a touch of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warmer spice profile, or even mix in some white chocolate chips for a sweet and creamy contrast. For more baking inspiration, visit our homepage.

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