Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, look no further than these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies. These cookies are a cherished favorite in my home, reminding me of cozy afternoons spent baking with loved ones. The combination of toasted pecans and creamy butter creates a comforting flavor that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a busy weeknight snack or bringing them along to a family gathering, these cookies will surely spread joy and smiles.

What makes these cookies truly special is their versatility. They shine at holiday gatherings but are just as perfect for everyday indulgence. With their delightful buttery aroma and melt-in-your-mouth glaze, they’re bound to become a staple in your cookie repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just about 25 minutes, you can have fresh cookies cooling on your countertop.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cookies! These are sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake the cookies when you’re ready.
• Delicious flavor: The rich blend of butter, brown sugar, and toasted pecans creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Each element plays a role in creating the soft texture and sweet flavor we all crave in our cookies.

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (toasted)

For the Glaze

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp milk or cream
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add chocolate chips: Toss in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Try different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
• Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a cozy touch.
• Make them seasonal: Incorporate festive mix-ins like dried cranberries or citrus zest during the holidays.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for 5–7 minutes until they’re golden and fragrant. This step enhances their natural flavors and adds that lovely crunch we want in our cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into your mixture, which helps create those soft cookie textures we love.

Step 3: Mix in the Egg and Vanilla

Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. The egg acts as a binding agent while adding richness to our cookie dough.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of dry ingredients throughout your dough—an important step to achieve uniform baking.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; over-mixing here can lead to tougher cookies. We want them soft!

Step 6: Fold in the Pecans

Gently fold in those cooled, toasted pecans. This way, you ensure they’re evenly distributed without breaking them apart too much.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dollops of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave some space between each scoop so they have room to spread while baking.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake for about 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still slightly set. This helps keep them chewy inside while achieving that perfect outer crispness.

Step 9: Cool on Baking Sheet

Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This lets them finish setting up without falling apart!

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt together your butter and brown sugar. Stir in milk until smooth; remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar until there are no lumps left—this glaze will add that irresistible touch!

Step 11: Drizzle Over Cookies

Once your cookies have completely cooled on the wire rack, drizzle that luscious glaze over each one. Let it set before serving or storing—if they last long enough!

And there you have it! A batch of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies that’s not only delicious but also perfect for sharing with friends and family. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking is a delightful journey, and these tips will help you create the best Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies ever!

• Use room temperature butter: Starting with softened butter helps to achieve that light and fluffy texture in your cookie dough, ensuring even mixing and a tender bite.

• Don’t skip toasting the pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds an extra layer of richness to your cookies. Just a few minutes in the oven can make all the difference!

• Chill the dough if needed: If you find that your dough is too soft to scoop, consider chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This can prevent spreading and give you thicker cookies.

• Check for doneness early: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of baking time. Look for golden edges while ensuring the centers are set but not overbaked.

• Experiment with flavors: While this recipe is perfect as is, feel free to add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to your dough for an additional warm spice note that complements the pecans beautifully.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

These cookies are not just delicious; they’re also fun to serve! Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack, here are some ideas to elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some toasted chopped pecans on top of the glaze for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of ground cinnamon over the glaze adds both flavor and a lovely touch of warmth.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs perfectly with these sweet cookies, balancing their richness while enhancing their buttery flavor.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the chewy cookie.

• Fresh Berries: A side of fresh blueberries or raspberries adds a tartness that cuts through the sweetness of the cookies, creating a refreshing contrast.

• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a bright complement, adding freshness and color to your dessert table.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch to enjoy throughout the week or save them for a special occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• For optimal freshness, consume within 5–7 days.

Freezing

• Freeze unglazed cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store for up to 3 months.
• Glaze after thawing for the best texture.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Alternatively, microwave for 10-15 seconds for individual servings.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use other nuts in place of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just ensure they’re chopped and toasted for the best flavor!

How can I make my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking them. Remove them from the oven once the edges are golden, even if the centers look slightly undercooked—they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

What should I do if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can make your own brown sugar by mixing granulated sugar with molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of white sugar) to achieve similar results in your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies.

How do I store my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them as described above.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! Their delightful blend of flavors and textures makes them truly special. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or just a sweet treat for yourself, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures!