How to Make The Best Pecan Pie Cookies

Name: How to Make The Best Pecan Pie Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:07:59.571Z

These Pecan Pie Cookies combine the rich flavors of traditional pecan pie into a delightful cookie form. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet treat any time of the year!

        Why You Will Love These Cookies
        Deliciously nutty with a caramel-like sweetness
Chewy texture with a crisp edge
Perfect for sharing during the holidays or any occasion

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Pecan pie cookies strike a delightful balance between sweet and nutty flavors. The combination of brown sugar and maple syrup creates a caramel-like sweetness that complements the rich, buttery taste of the cookies. Each bite offers a burst of flavor, with the pecans adding a satisfying crunch. This unique flavor profile makes these cookies irresistible, perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays when sweet treats are a must.

The use of both granulated and brown sugars enhances the depth of flavor in these cookies. Brown sugar contributes moisture and a slight chewiness while granulated sugar ensures a light texture. Together, they create a harmonious blend that pairs beautifully with the toasted flavor of the pecans. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, these cookies maintain their deliciously nutty taste.

Chewy Texture with a Crisp Edge

One of the standout features of these pecan pie cookies is their delightful texture. The edges are perfectly crisp, providing a satisfying contrast to the soft, chewy center. This combination makes each bite a delightful experience as you enjoy the variance in texture. The cookies are baked just until the edges are golden, ensuring that the centers remain chewy and moist.

To achieve the ideal texture, it's important not to overbake the cookies. Watch them closely during the last few minutes of baking; they will continue to firm up as they cool. This technique ensures a cookie that is both tender and satisfying, making them perfect for dunking in milk or coffee.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These pecan pie cookies are versatile enough to be enjoyed any time of year. While they make a fantastic addition to holiday celebrations, they are also a delightful treat for casual gatherings, picnics, or even a cozy night in. Their charming appearance and delicious flavor make them a hit with both family and friends, ensuring they won't last long on the dessert table.

Consider packaging these cookies in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful homemade gift. They travel well, making them an excellent choice for sending to loved ones or bringing to potlucks. With their rich flavors and delightful texture, pecan pie cookies are sure to bring smiles and joy wherever they are shared.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth baking experience.

For the Cookies

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

For the Topping

1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for perfect cookies!

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in the chopped pecans.

Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.

Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, maple syrup, and brown sugar. Spoon a small amount of this mixture on top of each cookie.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy your delicious Pecan Pie Cookies with a cup of coffee or tea!

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To ensure your pecan pie cookies turn out perfectly every time, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help with precision, especially for flour. Additionally, always use room temperature butter for optimal creaming with sugars, which helps achieve that light and fluffy texture.

For an extra nutty flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the dough. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant. This simple step elevates the flavor profile of your cookies and gives them an added depth that will impress your taste testers.

Storage and Shelf Life

These pecan pie cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for a few hours. To revive their freshly baked texture, you can warm them briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C). This will make them taste as if they were just baked, with a delightful chewiness and warmth.

Variations to Try

While the classic pecan pie cookie recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to experiment with variations to suit your taste. For an added burst of flavor, consider incorporating chocolate chips or caramel bits into the dough. These additions can enhance the sweetness and provide a new dimension to each bite.

You can also experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or hazelnuts, if you're looking for a change. Each nut brings its unique flavor and texture, creating a new cookie experience. Don't hesitate to get creative with spices, like a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg, to add warmth and depth to your cookies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes 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?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake when ready.

→ What can I use instead of maple syrup?

Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives to maple syrup.