Butter Pecan Cookies (Soft, Buttery, and Loaded with Pecans)
If you love rich, nutty desserts, Butter Pecan Cookies are a classic treat that never goes out of style. These cookies are soft in the center, slightly crisp around the edges, and packed with toasted pecans, giving them a warm, buttery flavor that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for holiday baking, afternoon snacks, or cookie exchanges, these homemade butter pecan cookies are easy to make and filled with comforting Southern-style flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Butter Pecan Cookies
- Rich buttery flavor
- Crunchy toasted pecans
- Soft and chewy texture
- Perfect for holiday cookie trays
- Simple ingredients and easy steps
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
Optional additions:
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon for warmth
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop or spoon
How to Make Butter Pecan Cookies
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for 5–7 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 5: Combine the Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 6: Fold in Pecans
Stir in the toasted pecans (and optional chocolate chips if using).
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Cookies
- Toast the pecans to enhance their flavor.
- Use room-temperature butter for smoother dough.
- Avoid overbaking for soft, chewy cookies.
- Chill the dough for 20 minutes if it feels too soft.
Delicious Variations
Brown Butter Pecan Cookies
Brown the butter before mixing for a deeper, nutty flavor.
Maple Butter Pecan Cookies
Add 1 tablespoon maple syrup to the dough.
Chocolate Butter Pecan Cookies
Mix in dark chocolate chunks for a rich twist.
What to Serve with Butter Pecan Cookies
These cookies pair perfectly with:
- Coffee
- Milk
- Hot chocolate
- Vanilla ice cream
They’re also great for holiday dessert trays and gift boxes.
Storage Tips
Room Temperature:
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer:
Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Cookie Dough:
Dough can be frozen and baked later.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per cookie)
- Calories: 170
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 9g
Final Thoughts
These Butter Pecan Cookies are the perfect combination of buttery richness and crunchy toasted pecans. With their soft texture and warm flavor, they’re a delicious treat for any occasion.