Get ready to fall in love with these pecan pie cookies, where the rich, buttery flavors of your favorite pie meet the convenience and delight of a cookie. Great for any occasion, these treats are sure to impress with their perfect blend of crunch and gooeyness.
Why This Recipe Works
- Combines the beloved flavors of pecan pie in a portable, bite-sized form.
- Uses a simple, no-fail cookie dough that acts as the perfect vessel for the pecan filling.
- The addition of a touch of bourbon (optional) elevates the flavor profile, giving these cookies a sophisticated twist.
- Perfect balance of textures, from the crispy edges to the soft, chewy center filled with pecans.
- Easy to make ahead and freeze, making them a great option for holiday baking or last-minute gifts.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp bourbon (optional)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed (for filling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop or spoon
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Tip: If you’re baking multiple batches, consider investing in a second baking sheet to speed up the process.
Make the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, 1 cup brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and bourbon (if using). In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Prepare the Filling
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the corn syrup, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans. Let the mixture cool slightly before using. Tip: The filling should be thick but pourable; if it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of warm water to loosen it.
Assemble the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Make a small indentation in the center of each ball and fill with a teaspoon of the pecan mixture. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. Tip: Don’t overfill the indentations, as the filling will spread during baking.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for the cookies to set properly. Serve at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to take their pecan pie cookies to the next level, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the filling. This enhances their flavor and adds an extra layer of depth to the cookies. Additionally, if you’re not a fan of bourbon, you can substitute it with maple syrup for a different but equally delicious twist. Lastly, storing these cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread can help keep them soft and chewy for days.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: After the cookies have cooled, drizzle them with melted chocolate for a decadent finish.
- Spiced Version: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the dough for a warm, autumnal flavor.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version that’s just as tasty.
- Mini Cookies: Use a mini cookie scoop to create bite-sized treats perfect for parties.
- Vegan Adaptation: Use vegan butter and a flax egg to make these cookies plant-based.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies without corn syrup?
Yes, you can substitute the corn syrup with honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the filling, but the cookies will still be delicious.
How long do these cookies last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I use pre-made cookie dough?
While you can use pre-made dough for convenience, the flavor and texture won’t be quite the same as making the dough from scratch. The homemade dough is specially formulated to complement the pecan filling.
Summary
These pecan pie cookies are the perfect blend of classic pie flavors and the convenience of a cookie. With their rich, buttery dough and gooey pecan filling, they’re sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.