Are you looking for a delicious and unique dessert to impress your friends and family? Look no further than the humble pecan cookie! Pecans add a rich, buttery flavor and satisfying crunch to any baked good. In this article, we’ll explore 18 scrumptious pecan cookie recipes perfect for every occasion.
From classic treats like Butter Pecan Cookies and Pecan Sandies to sweet and savory twists like Maple Glazed Pecan Cookies and Spiced Pecan Cookies, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these pecan cookie recipes are sure to become new favorites.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these mouthwatering recipes, sharing tips, tricks, and secrets to help you create the perfect batch every time. So go ahead, get baking, and indulge in the delicious world of pecan cookies!
Classic Butter Pecan Cookies
Classic Butter Pecan Cookies: A sweet and nutty treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in chopped pecans.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Maple Glazed Pecan Cookies
These chewy cookies are elevated by a rich maple glaze and crunchy pecans, making them perfect for a snack or dessert. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have these delicious treats ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Maple glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and maple syrup.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and pecans.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between cookies.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Maple Glaze:
1. Whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup until smooth.
2. Drizzle over warm cookies and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies
Classic cookies get a boost of flavor with the addition of crunchy pecans and melted chocolate chips. These soft-baked treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in chocolate chips and pecans.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Pecan Sandies
These classic shortbread-like cookies are a staple of Southern baking, with the rich flavor of pecans and a crumbly texture that’s hard to resist. This recipe yields a delicious batch of Pecan Sandies that are perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Fold in chopped pecans.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies
These chewy cookies are infused with the rich flavors of brown sugar and toasted pecans, perfect for a cozy treat or gift-giving. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these sweet and nutty treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Optional: sea salt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in pecans.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Pecan Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are elevated by the rich flavor of pecans, making them perfect for a sweet and satisfying snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt; mix until combined.
4. Stir in chopped pecans and flour until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Oatmeal Pecan Cookies
A classic cookie recipe gets a boost from the added warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, paired with the rich flavor of pecans. These soft-baked treats are perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in pecans, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pecan Praline Cookies
Experience the perfect combination of crunchy pecans and chewy cookies with this simple recipe for Pecan Praline Cookies.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chopped pecans.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Spiced Pecan Cookies
Warm up with these aromatic cookies that combine the sweetness of pecans with a blend of spices. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Sea salt, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in chopped pecans.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pecan Snowball Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are packed with the rich flavor of pecans and coated in a sweet powdered sugar glaze. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving, these snowball cookies are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Powdered sugar for coating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in flour mixture and pecans until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before coating in powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
White Chocolate Pecan Cookies
These sweet and nutty cookies are perfect for satisfying your cravings. With the richness of white chocolate and the crunch of pecans, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in white chocolate chips and pecans.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
These chewy cookies are a classic favorite, with a soft center filled with melted caramel and crunchy pecans. Perfect for snacking or gifting, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Use your thumb or a spoon to make an indentation in each cookie. Fill with caramel sauce.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pecan Pie Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies combine the flavors of pecan pie with the convenience of a classic cookie. With just the right balance of sweet and nutty, they’re perfect for snacking or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup caramel bits (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture and pecans. If using caramel bits, fold them into the dough.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cinnamon Pecan Cookies
Cinnamon Pecan Cookies Recipe
These chewy cookies are packed with the warmth of cinnamon and the crunch of pecans, making them a perfect treat for any time of day. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a batch fresh out of the oven in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in chopped pecans.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pecan Coconut Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of pecans with the sweetness of coconut, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a batch ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in pecans and coconut.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pecan Crinkle Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with the rich flavor of pecans and a delightful crinkled surface. Perfect for snacking or as a gift, they’re sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in chopped pecans.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pecan Date Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of dates with the rich flavor of pecans, perfect for a snack or dessert. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy these delicious treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, blend dates and sugars until well combined.
3. Add flour, baking soda, and salt; process until just mixed.
4. Stir in pecans, egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pecan Snickerdoodles
These soft and chewy snickerdoodles are elevated with the rich flavor of pecans, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pecans.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to go nuts with these 18 delicious pecan cookie recipes! Whether you’re looking for classic flavors or unique twists, there’s something for every occasion. From sweet treats like Classic Butter Pecan Cookies and Maple Glazed Pecan Cookies, to savory options like Spiced Pecan Cookies and Cinnamon Pecan Cookies, this collection has it all. And with flavors like chocolate chip, oatmeal, and coconut, you’re sure to find a new favorite. So go ahead, get baking, and enjoy the perfect cookie for any time of year.
