Pecan Pie Cookies

Name: Pecan Pie Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24.0
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup caramel sauce; 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Savor the delightful taste of fall with these irresistible Pecan Pie Cookies. Combining the rich flavors of buttery pecans, sweet caramel, and a touch of vanilla, these cookies offer all the comforts of traditional pecan pie in a portable treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons, they are sure to become a family favorite and a centerpiece for your dessert table.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2025-11-22T22:13:45.993Z

These cookies are a delightful twist on traditional pecan pie, incorporating all the beloved flavors into a cookie form that's easy to enjoy!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Pecan Pie Cookies are versatile treats that can be enjoyed year-round. Their rich, nutty flavors make them an excellent addition to holiday gatherings, family festivities, or simply as a delightful dessert to share with friends. Whether you're hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or a casual get-together, these cookies add a touch of warmth and comfort to any occasion.

People of all ages will appreciate the familiar taste of pecan pie wrapped in a cookie. Their portable nature makes them an ideal dessert to take on picnics or road trips, bringing a piece of home wherever you go. Plus, they pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk, enhancing the experience for everyone!

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect texture for these Pecan Pie Cookies, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Creaming the butter with the sugars properly is crucial, as it helps to incorporate air into the dough, resulting in a light and tender cookie. Remember to measure your flour accurately by spooning it into a cup and leveling it off, as too much flour can lead to a dry cookie.

When shaping the cookies, using a tablespoon to scoop the dough helps maintain uniformity, ensuring that all cookies bake evenly. Be sure to leave enough space between each scoop on the baking sheet, as they will expand slightly during baking. Keeping a close eye on the oven towards the end of the baking time will help you achieve that perfect golden brown finish!

Customization and Variations

While the classic Pecan Pie Cookies are delicious as is, there are several ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste. You might consider adding chocolate chips for a rich twist or incorporating spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a warmer flavor profile. Experimenting with different nuts, like walnuts or almonds, can also add interesting textures and tastes to the cookies.

If you're looking to make these cookies gluten-free, try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose contains a binding agent like xanthan gum to mimic the structure of regular flour. These variations make it easy to adapt this recipe to cater to different dietary needs or flavor preferences!

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans

For the Topping

1/2 cup caramel sauce
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped pecans.

Shape and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between each. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Add Topping

Once cooled, drizzle the cookies with caramel sauce and sprinkle with additional chopped pecans.

Allow the cookies to set before serving for the best texture.

Storage Instructions

To keep your Pecan Pie Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Proper storage will help maintain their softness and flavor for up to a week. However, if you plan to enjoy them later, consider refrigerating them to extend their shelf life even further.

If you need to store these cookies for more than a week, freezing is a great option. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for a couple of hours before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, and they’ll taste just as delicious as the day they were baked!

Serving Suggestions

Pecan Pie Cookies are fantastic on their own, but elevating them to a dessert platter can create an incredible treat for your guests. Consider pairing them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Offering a drizzle of chocolate sauce can make them even more decadent.

For a cozy evening at home, these cookies also make a wonderful accompaniment to a warm beverage. Enjoy them with a cup of hot cider or a latte to enhance the flavors. Adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the caramel topping can also create an enticing contrast that enhances the sweetness and nutty flavors of the cookies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be substituted if desired.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.