Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Browned Butter Magic: Adds a deep, nutty richness that elevates every bite.
Pecan Crunch: Toasted pecans provide a satisfying texture and enhance the buttery base.
Soft & Chewy Texture: Perfect balance of tender centers and crisp edges.
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples for effortless baking.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy plain, drizzle with icing, or pair with vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients (Makes 20–24 Cookies)
For the Cookies:
1 cup unsalted butter (for browning)
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
Optional Topping:
Flaky sea salt (for sprinkling before baking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Butter
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Continue cooking, stirring often, until it foams, subsides, and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma (5–7 minutes).
Pour into a heatproof bowl and let it cool slightly.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the browned butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Fold in the Pecans
Gently fold in toasted pecans with a spatula. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
5. Chill the Dough
Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance flavor and prevent excessive spreading.
6. Bake the Cookies
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are golden brown and centers are set.
7. Cool and Serve
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Why This Recipe Works
Browned Butter: Enhances the flavor with caramelized richness.
Toasted Pecans: Intensifies the nutty taste and adds crunch.
Chilled Dough: Ensures a chewy texture and prevents spreading.
Variations to Try
Add Chocolate Chips: Incorporate semi-sweet or white chocolate for a sweet twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
Double the Nuts: Increase pecans to 1 1/2 cups for extra crunch.
Drizzle with Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for a finishing touch.
Tips for Success
Toast the Pecans: Bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until fragrant, then chop.
Don’t Skip Chilling: Helps achieve the perfect cookie texture.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer.
Serving Suggestions
Elegant Touch: Dust with powdered sugar or sea salt for a refined look.
Brunch Favorite: Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
Party-Ready: Serve alongside brownies, cupcakes, or fruit tarts.
Final Thoughts
These Butter Pecan Cookies are the perfect blend of buttery richness, nutty crunch, and chewy goodness. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, they’re guaranteed to impress.
Have you tried baking with browned butter before? Share your favorite twists below! 🌰