Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies: The Best of Both Worlds
There’s something magical about the rich, buttery flavor of pecan pie its gooey filling, crunchy nuts, and warm spices make it a classic dessert for holidays and special occasions.
But what if you could capture all that decadence in a portable, bite-sized cookie? Enter Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies: a delightful fusion of pecan pie’s signature taste and the convenience of a cookie.
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These irresistible treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying a sweet craving at home. With a buttery cookie base and a luscious pecan filling, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your Pecan Pie Cookies recipe collection.
Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon plant-based milk (or regular dairy milk)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add milk and vanilla extract, mixing until incorporated.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until a soft dough forms. Scoop dough into balls and place on baking sheets.
- Flatten each ball and create a shallow well in the center.
- Combine pecans, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Spoon filling into the wells of each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Cookies
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and simple ingredients make this Pecan Pie Cookies ideal for busy home cooks.
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are a crowd-pleaser and great for cookie trays, gift boxes, or dessert platters.
- Flavorful: The buttery cookie base pairs beautifully with the rich, nutty pecan topping for a truly indulgent experience.
- Versatile: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even a breakfast treat with your morning coffee.
Ingredients Pecan Pie Cookies
- For the Cookie Base:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened - 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon plant-based milk (or regular dairy milk)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Pecan Topping:
1 cup chopped pecans - 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins:
- A pinch of sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast
- A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pecan Pie Cookies
- Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking. - Step 2: Mix the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar using a hand or stand mixer. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the plant-based milk and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. - Step 3: Make the Dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. - Tip: If the dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before shaping.
- Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand to create a small indentation in the center. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to deepen the indentation, forming a shallow well for the filling. - Step 5: Make the Pecan Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, light corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated. Carefully spoon about 1–2 teaspoons of the pecan filling into the well of each cookie. Be cautious not to overfill to avoid spilling during baking. - Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The edges of the cookies should be lightly golden while the filling sets. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 18 cookies
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips for Pecan Pie Cookies
Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To refresh, warm the cookies in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 10–15 seconds.
Serving Suggestions and Garnish Ideas Pecan Pie Cookies
- Serve these cookies with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra elegance.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Optional Add-ons and Variations
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie base for a spiced twist.
- Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Ready to bake something new? Explore our top 11 cookie recipes loved by home bakers.
Ready to bake a batch of these irresistible cookies? Click below to get the full recipe and start creating your own delicious pecan pie cookies today!
Want to know more about the health benefits of pecans? According to the USDA FoodData Central, pecans are a rich source of healthy fats, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a nutritious addition to your baking. Harvard Health also highlights that nuts like pecans can support heart health and provide plant-based protein. Click below to explore the full nutritional profile and discover why pecans are a smart choice for your next batch of cookies!
Cultural and Contextual Note Pecan Pie Cookies
Pecan pie is a classic Southern dessert, beloved for its rich, gooey filling and crunchy nut topping. By transforming this iconic pie into a cookie, you can enjoy its signature flavors in a fun, portable format. These cookies are especially popular during the holiday season, but they’re delicious year-round.
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop them finely so they blend well with the filling.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains a binder like xanthan gum for the best texture.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
If your cookies spread too much, chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking. You can also reduce the butter slightly or add 1-2 tablespoons more flour to the dough.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pecan filling up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before spooning it into the cookie wells.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
