Looking for the perfect cookie recipe for your next holiday gathering or cozy afternoon snack? These Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies are just what you need! With the rich, caramel-like sweetness of brown sugar and the crunch of toasted pecans, these cookies will become a favorite in no time. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make!
Ingredients:
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the toasted pecans.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers remain soft.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Tips:
Pair with a warm beverage: These cookies are perfect when paired with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. The sweetness and nutty crunch complement warm drinks perfectly.
Create a holiday platter: For festive gatherings, serve alongside other cookies like classic sugar cookies, chocolate chip, or shortbread for a delightful variety.
Add a topping: For an extra touch, drizzle the cookies with melted chocolate or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days. To keep them soft, add a slice of fresh bread into the container — the moisture from the bread helps maintain the chewy texture.
Freezing Baked Cookies: To freeze baked cookies, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Freezing Cookie Dough: If you want fresh-baked cookies on demand, freeze the dough instead. Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, place the frozen dough directly onto a baking sheet and add an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
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FAQs:
Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute dark brown sugar for light brown sugar in this recipe. Dark brown sugar contains more molasses, which will result in a slightly richer, deeper flavor and a darker color in the cookies.
How do I toast pecans for the cookies?
To toast pecans, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, and remove once they’re fragrant and lightly golden.
Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze cookie dough by scooping it into balls and freezing them on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
What can I add to these cookies for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor of these cookies by adding chocolate chips, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of caramel or melted chocolate on top. Feel free to experiment with other nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts if you prefer!
Conclusion:
These Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies are perfect for any occasion, offering a combination of soft, chewy texture and rich, nutty flavor. Simple to make, they are a must-try recipe whether you’re baking for a holiday, gifting to friends, or treating yourself!
📖 Recipe:
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Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with rich brown sugar and crunchy toasted pecans. Perfect for a cozy snack or a holiday treat, they are quick and easy to make, offering irresistible flavor in every bite. Enjoy these cookies fresh from the oven or make a batch ahead of time to share with friends and family.
Ingredients
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the toasted pecans.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Toasting the pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the dough enhances their flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days. You can also freeze the dough or baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Customizations: Add-ins like chocolate chips, cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel can add even more flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: Approx. 150 kcal per cookie
