Pecan Pie Cookies

Name: Pecan Pie Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup pecans, chopped; 1/2 cup pecans, halved; 1/4 cup maple syrup

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Deliciously sweet and nutty, these pecan pie cookies bring the flavors of classic pecan pie into a bite-sized treat.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-29T20:49:55.335Z

Pecan pie cookies are the perfect combination of sweet and nutty, offering a delightful twist on the traditional pie. These cookies are easy to make and are sure to impress at any gathering.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich, buttery flavor with a hint of sweetness
Crispy edges with a chewy center
Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat

      

The Essence of Pecan Pie in a Cookie

Pecan pie is a beloved dessert, especially during the holiday season. Its rich flavors and gooey texture make it a favorite among many. By transforming this classic pie into cookie form, you can enjoy the same delightful taste in a more convenient and portable treat. These pecan pie cookies encapsulate the essence of the traditional dessert while offering a unique twist that is sure to impress.

Each cookie is a celebration of sweet, buttery goodness, with the crunch of pecans adding a delightful texture. The combination of brown sugar and maple syrup gives these cookies a depth of flavor that mirrors the filling of a classic pecan pie. Whether you're a fan of the original pie or just love cookies, these treats are bound to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These pecan pie cookies are versatile enough to suit a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. Their delightful taste and appealing appearance make them an excellent choice for impressing guests or sharing with friends and family.

Not only are they delicious, but they also add a festive touch to any gathering. Imagine a platter of these cookies at your next holiday event, drawing smiles and compliments from everyone. They are easy to make in large batches, ensuring that you have enough to go around, making them a practical and tasty option for any celebration.

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results when making these pecan pie cookies, ensure that your butter is properly softened. This means it should be at room temperature, allowing it to cream effectively with the sugars. Proper creaming is essential for achieving the light and fluffy texture that characterizes these cookies.

Also, be mindful not to overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. As you fold in the chopped pecans, do so gently to maintain the dough's airy quality. Lastly, keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; every oven is different, and you want to catch them at that perfect moment when the edges turn golden brown.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

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

For the Topping

1/2 cup pecans, halved
1/4 cup maple syrup

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Scoop and Bake

Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press a halved pecan onto the top of each cookie and drizzle with maple syrup.

Bake and Cool

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious pecan pie cookies!

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your pecan pie cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will retain their delicious flavor and chewy texture for several days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be enjoyed straight from the freezer or thawed for a few minutes at room temperature.

If you decide to freeze the cookie dough, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag. This way, you can bake fresh cookies at a moment's notice by simply adjusting the baking time.

Customization Ideas

While the classic pecan pie cookie recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to get creative! You can swap out the pecans for other nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts, or even add chocolate chips for a richer flavor. For a touch of spice, consider incorporating a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough, which will enhance the cookie's warmth and comfort.

For an extra layer of decadence, drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and cream over the cooled cookies. This will not only make them visually appealing but also add a sweet contrast to the nutty flavors. Experimenting with these variations allows you to tailor the cookies to your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute for pecans.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I serve these cookies with?

These cookies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of coffee.