If you’re a fan of pecan pie but crave a bite-sized treat, Better Than Pecan Pie Cookies are the perfect solution. These delightful cookies feature a buttery shortbread base topped with a rich, gooey pecan filling, making them an irresistible option for holidays or any occasion that calls for something sweet. With a combination of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time!
Ingredients:
Cookie Base:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
Pecan Filling:
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Make the Cookie Base:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with your thumb to create an indentation in the center.
Prepare the Pecan Filling
In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Assemble and Bake:
Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the pecan filling into each cookie indentation.
Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Tips:
Presentation: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter or cake stand to showcase their delightful appearance. You can garnish with whole pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added visual appeal.
Pairing: Serve these cookies with a glass of milk, coffee, or a warm cup of tea to enhance their rich flavors. They also pair well with ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Warm Them Up: For a freshly baked experience, briefly microwave the cookies for 5-10 seconds before serving. This will warm the gooey pecan filling, making them even more irresistible.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This will help maintain their softness and prevent them from becoming stale.
Refrigeration: If you live in a particularly warm or humid climate, consider refrigerating the cookies to extend their freshness. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing moisture and odors.
Freezing: For longer storage, these cookies can be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, layering parchment paper between the cookies to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can warm them in the microwave or oven to restore their original texture.
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FAQs:
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough and the pecan filling ahead of time. Store the cookie dough in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Similarly, you can make the pecan filling in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to bring both to room temperature before baking.
Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! While pecans are the traditional choice for this recipe, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts if you prefer. Just ensure that any nuts you use are chopped and toasted for the best flavor.
What should I do if the cookies are too crumbly?
If your cookies turn out crumbly, it might be due to not enough moisture in the dough. You can try adding a small amount of milk or cream (1 tablespoon at a time) to the dough until it holds together better. Ensure that you don’t overmix the dough, as this can also lead to a dry texture.
How should I store leftover cookies?
To store leftover Better Than Pecan Pie Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving or warm them slightly for the best taste.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re a pecan pie lover or just looking for a delightful dessert, Better Than Pecan Pie Cookies are a must-try. With their rich flavors and easy preparation, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your household. Bake a batch today and experience the delicious twist on a classic treat!
📖 Recipe:
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Better Than Pecan Pie Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these Better Than Pecan Pie Cookies, a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie. Featuring a buttery shortbread base and a rich, gooey pecan filling, these bite-sized cookies are perfect for the holidays or any sweet craving. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Ingredients
Cookie Base:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
Pecan Filling:
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the Cookie Base: Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with your thumb to create an indentation in the center.
- Prepare the Pecan Filling: In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt until combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the pecan filling into each cookie indentation. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before rolling.
Customize the Filling: Consider adding a splash of bourbon or maple syrup for an extra kick in the pecan filling.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: 120 kcal
