Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. Butter pecan cookies are a delightful combination of buttery goodness and crunchy pecans, making them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to enjoy a sweet snack, these cookies will satisfy your cravings. With a rich flavor and a soft texture, they’re perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, and they are sure to impress family and friends!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Whole pecans for topping
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 120 calories, 8g fat, 10g carbohydrates, 1g protein, and 0g fiber. This is based on one cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
6. Fold in the chopped pecans.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Press a whole pecan on top of each cookie.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden.
10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version. Additionally, you may use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
These butter pecan cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. They also make a great addition to dessert platters at gatherings.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to poor texture.
- Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies.
- Not letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet can make them fall apart.
- Using cold butter instead of softened butter will affect the creaming process.
- Skipping the parchment paper can lead to sticking.
Helpful Tips
- Toast the pecans for extra flavor before adding them to the dough.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for a thicker cookie.
- Experiment with adding chocolate chips for a twist.
- Use a cookie scoop for even-sized cookies.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for even browning.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor and texture.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers will look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can make a substitute by mixing granulated sugar with a bit of molasses or use all granulated sugar.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Yes, these cookies freeze well. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
Butter pecan cookies are a delectable treat that combines rich buttery flavor with crunchy pecans. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to delight your taste buds. With easy-to-follow steps and delicious results, they make an ideal addition to your baking repertoire. Enjoy them fresh or store them for later – either way, you won’t be disappointed!
Butter Pecan Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- Whole pecans for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
- Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Press a whole pecan on top of each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
