Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies are the perfect combination of soft and chewy with a satisfying crunch. The brown sugar adds depth of flavor and sweetness, while the toasted pecans provide a nutty, rich contrast. These cookies are easy to make, and the ingredients are pantry staples that you likely already have on hand. Whether you’re a fan of pecans or just looking for a new cookie recipe, these cookies are bound to become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted, if desired)

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the oven and baking sheet:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

2. Cream the butter and brown sugar:

• In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. The sugar should be fully incorporated, and the mixture should look pale and smooth.

3. Add the egg and vanilla:

• Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

4. Mix the dry ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cookie texture.

5. Add the pecans:

• Gently fold in the chopped pecans. If you prefer toasted pecans, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until fragrant, then let them cool before adding them to the dough.

6. Form the cookie dough:

• Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake the cookies:

• Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft. They may look slightly underdone in the center, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.

8. Cool the cookies:

• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cookies firm up and hold their shape.

9. Serve:

• Once cooled, serve the Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies with a glass of milk or enjoy them as an afternoon treat!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 cookies

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Add chocolate chips: For a chocolatey twist, fold in a handful of semisweet chocolate chips or white chocolate chips along with the pecans.

• Add a pinch of nutmeg: Nutmeg pairs wonderfully with brown sugar, so you can add a pinch to the dough for extra warmth and spice.

• Substitute other nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store your Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They will stay soft and chewy for several days. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Just be sure to layer the cookies between parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag.

To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to restore their softness.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid making the cookies too salty.

Can I use all-purpose flour substitutes, like almond flour or coconut flour?

While these cookies are best made with all-purpose flour, you can try almond flour or coconut flour if you’re looking for gluten-free options. Be aware that the texture will change, and you may need to adjust the amount of flour used.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, scoop and bake as usual. Alternatively, you can freeze the cookie dough in dough balls and bake them directly from frozen—just add an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use different types of sugar for this recipe?

You can substitute the brown sugar with white sugar, but it will alter the flavor and texture. Brown sugar gives the cookies a deeper, more caramel-like flavor and contributes to their softness.

Can I add dried fruit to the dough?

Yes, dried cranberries, raisins, or even chopped dried apricots would be a great addition to these cookies if you want to add a fruity twist.

Conclusion

Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies are a simple yet delicious treat that combines the warm, sweet flavor of brown sugar with the satisfying crunch of pecans. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special occasion, or just a cozy day at home, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With their soft texture, nutty flavor, and perfect balance of sweetness, they’re the ultimate comfort cookie. Enjoy with a glass of milk or your favorite warm beverage!

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