Description
Delight in the rich and buttery goodness of these classic Butter Pecan Cookies, featuring toasted pecans and optional toffee bits for an extra sweet crunch. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and light vanilla, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser and great for any occasion.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 5 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp cinnamon powder
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
Add-ins
- 5 cups roughly chopped pecans (toasted if preferred)
- 1/2 cup toffee bits (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, mix the melted butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for your dough.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture, beating until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the flour, cinnamon, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder to the wet mixture. Stir gently to combine, taking care not to overmix, which could toughen the cookies.
- Fold in Pecans and Toffee Bits: Gently fold the toasted pecans and optional toffee bits into the dough for that signature crunch and flavor.
- Chill Dough: Refrigerate the dough for 30 to 45 minutes. This step firms the dough, making it easier to handle and helping the cookies keep their shape while baking.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the chilled dough into balls. For extra texture and sweetness, optionally roll the balls in granulated sugar before placing them spaced out on the prepared baking tray.
- Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 11 to 14 minutes, or until the cookie edges turn golden brown and the centers are set but still soft.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool directly on the baking tray. If necessary, gently press the centers to flatten them slightly while still warm.
- Enjoy: Serve your delicious Butter Pecan Cookies as a delightful treat with tea, coffee, or milk.
Notes
- For best flavor, toast the pecans lightly before folding them into the dough.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
- Rolling cookies in granulated sugar adds a nice crunchy exterior but can be omitted if preferred.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for maximum freshness.
- Toffee bits are optional but provide a delightful caramel taste that complements the pecans.