If you adore all things sweet, nutty, and utterly comforting, you are going to fall head over heels for this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe. Imagine biting into a perfectly soft, buttery cookie with a golden, gooey pecan pie filling right in the center—it’s the best of two classic desserts rolled into one irresistible treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings or just treating yourself any day of the week, these cookies bring the cozy warmth and rich flavors of pecan pie in a conveniently handheld form that’s sure to impress everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients that come together to create incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays a unique role, from the buttery dough to the warm, spiced pecan filling that steals the show.
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled): Adds richness and helps create that tender cookie texture.
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed): Provides deep caramel notes and moisture to the dough.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps with texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough together and adds structure.
- 1 egg yolk: Adds extra richness and moisture for softness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances all the sweet flavors beautifully.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookie, giving it structure.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: A leavening agent to keep cookies light.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Works with baking soda for perfect rise.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a hint of warm spice for that classic pecan pie feel.
- 1 cup light brown sugar (for filling): Sweet, caramelized layer for the topping.
- ⅔ cup unsalted butter (for filling): Brings luscious creaminess to the pecan topping.
- ½ cup maple syrup: Imparts rich sweetness with a subtle depth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Intensifies the flavors in the filling.
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (for filling): Provides extra warmth and spice.
- 1 ½ cups pecans (chopped): The star ingredient for that irresistible crunch and nutty flavor.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Create the Cookie Dough
Start by whisking the melted butter together with both the light brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Next, stir in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract; this will make your dough wonderfully rich and moist.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. These dry ingredients provide the structural backbone and subtle flavor that balances the sweetness.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Slowly fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. The dough will be thick — this is perfect because it helps the cookies keep their shape during baking.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough or cover the bowl and chill it for about 30 minutes. Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much when baked, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop roughly 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them out to allow for slight expansion.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers still look just a little soft. This ensures your cookies remain tender and chewy once cooled.
Step 7: Make Indents for the Filling
Right after removing the cookies from the oven, gently press a shallow indentation into the center of each cookie with the back of a spoon. This will hold your sumptuous pecan pie topping perfectly in place.
Step 8: Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling
In a small saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup. Cook over medium heat until bubbling and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, cinnamon, and chopped pecans. Let the mixture cool until it thickens just enough to be spoonable.
Step 9: Add the Filling
Spoon the warm pecan filling into the prepared indentations of the cooled cookies. Allow the topping to set for about 20 minutes, so it firms up slightly but stays gooey and delicious.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies shine best when simple garnishes are added to highlight their nutty sweetness. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate adds an elegant touch and extra flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
Serve your Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a heavenly dessert experience. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board with whole pecans scattered artfully around for a festive feel. Alternatively, individually wrap them in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon to give as delightful homemade gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Pecan Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for snacking anytime.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies without the pecan filling for up to 2 months. Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Add the filling fresh after thawing and before serving for best results.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy warm cookies, gently reheat them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as this can make the pecan filling too runny or the cookies chewy in an unpleasant way.
FAQs
Can I use roasted pecans for the filling?
Absolutely! Roasted pecans add an even deeper, nuttier flavor to the filling. Just be sure they’re chopped to fit nicely into the cookie indentations.
Is there an alternative if I don’t have maple syrup?
You can substitute honey or light corn syrup for maple syrup, but the unique flavor of maple really enhances this recipe. Try to use maple syrup if possible for that authentic taste.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
With some modifications like using vegan butter and an egg replacer, it’s possible to make a plant-based version. However, the traditional richness comes from real butter and eggs, so expect a slight difference in texture.
Why do I need to chill the dough before baking?
Chilling helps the dough firm up so the cookies don’t spread too much in the oven. This ensures thick, soft cookies that hold the pecan filling perfectly.
How do I keep the pecan filling from running off the cookies?
Pressing a shallow well into the cookies immediately after baking creates a perfect “bowl” for the filling. Also, letting the filling cool and thicken slightly before spooning it on helps it set firmly.
Final Thoughts
If you want to impress your friends and family with a dessert that feels homemade and indulgent, this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a fun twist on two classic favorites that’s surprisingly easy to make and always disappears quickly. Give these cookies a try, and I promise they’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation.
