Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re searching for a cookie that perfectly balances buttery sweetness with a delightful crunch, this Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need in your baking repertoire. These cookies bring together the rich flavor of toasted pecans with the classic simplicity of sugar cookies, resulting in a treat that’s both comforting and elegant. Every bite offers a tender texture with a slightly crisp edge, making them ideal for sharing during holidays, special occasions, or just any day that deserves a little indulgence. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Though this Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe requires just a handful of ingredients, each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect cookie—flavorful, textured, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The balance and quality of these components make all the difference.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds that creamy richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Brings sweetness and helps the cookies spread and brown just right.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, lending structure and softness.
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Provides a delightful nutty crunch and a lovely toasty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the overall sweetness with smooth, fragrant vanilla notes.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the cookie’s flavors.

How to Make Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Equipment

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly as soon as they go in. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to help the bottoms brown perfectly without burning.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is essential for that tender texture and airy bite, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Salt

Next, mix in the vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated. These ingredients might be small in quantity but pack a punch in flavor, creating the perfect balance to the sweet, buttery base.

Step 4: Combine the Flour

Slowly add the all-purpose flour to your wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; overmixing can make the cookies tough, so keep it light and easy to maintain that soft, crumbly texture.

Step 5: Fold in the Pecans

Once the dough is formed, gently fold in the chopped pecans. These add not only crunch but also nutty depth that makes this Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe stand out.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to give the cookies room to spread as they bake.

Step 7: Press with a Fork

Use a fork to gently press down on each dough ball, flattening them just a bit. This step creates those charming fork marks and helps the cookies bake evenly with a slightly crisp exterior.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cookie edges turn a beautiful golden brown. Your kitchen will soon be filled with an irresistible aroma!

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set perfectly without falling apart.

How to Serve Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For a festive touch, sprinkle a tiny pinch of coarse sugar or cinnamon on top before baking to add sparkle and extra flavor. Alternatively, a light drizzle of white chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar can make these cookies look as delightful as they taste.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making for a cozy afternoon treat. For something more indulgent, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to turn them into a decadent dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack these Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe beauties on a decorative plate tied with a ribbon for gift-giving or party favors. You can also sandwich cookies together with your favorite jam or frosting for an extra special twist everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your pecan sugar cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay deliciously soft and chewy for up to a week, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the week or sharing with friends.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or keep extras on hand, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to three months and thaw wonderfully when you’re ready to indulge.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth, pop your cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes or microwave briefly for about 10 seconds. This will revive their soft texture and enhance that nutty aroma you love.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts can be great alternatives, each bringing their own unique flavor and crunch. Just chop them to a similar size for even baking.

What if I don’t have unsalted butter?

You can use salted butter, but reduce added salt slightly to keep your cookies from becoming too salty. The salt content in the butter varies, so adjust accordingly to your taste.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Chilling helps intensify the flavors and makes the dough easier to handle when shaping cookies.

Why do my cookies turn out flat?

Flat cookies often result from over-mixing the dough, butter being too warm, or not chilling the dough. Make sure to cream butter and sugar only until fluffy and handle the dough gently. If your kitchen is very warm, chilled dough helps maintain shape during baking.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking, and be aware that texture might be slightly different.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about homemade cookies that bring warmth and joy to any table, and this Pecan Sugar Cookies Recipe delivers exactly that. Simple ingredients combine to create a treat bursting with flavor and texture that’s hard to resist. So grab your mixing bowl and enjoy the delightful experience of baking these irresistible cookies. Your family, friends, and taste buds will thank you!

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