Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe

If you adore all things pecan and crave that perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, and buttery, then this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Imagine a tender yet slightly crisp cookie base with a luscious, gooey pecan pie topping nestled right in the center—each bite offering that comforting warmth and the irresistible flavors of cinnamon, maple, and toasted pecans. Whether you’re baking for a holiday treat, a cozy weekend snack, or surprising friends with something homemade and memorable, these cookies deliver joy straight from the oven to your heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe starts with a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the rich, melted butter that creates a tender crumb to the warm cinnamon spice that perfectly complements the sweetness of the pecan topping. The combination is what makes these cookies so special and utterly delicious.

• Unsalted butter (¾ cup melted and slightly cooled): Provides a rich, creamy base for the cookie dough and pecan topping.
• Light brown sugar (1 cup packed + 1 cup packed for topping): Adds deep, caramel notes and moisture—key to that gooey texture.
• Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Balances sweetness and helps create a delicate cookie texture.
• Large egg and egg yolk: Help bind the ingredients while adding richness to the dough.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons for dough + 1 teaspoon for topping): Infuses warmth and enhances all the flavors.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): Forms the sturdy but tender base of the cookie.
• Baking soda and baking powder (each ½ teaspoon): Provide the perfect lift and lightness.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
• Ground cinnamon (½ teaspoon for dough + ¼ teaspoon for topping): Adds cozy spice that ties everything together.
• Maple syrup (½ cup): Brings natural sweetness and a hint of woodsy flavor to the topping.
• Pecans (1½ cups chopped): The star of the show, offering crunch, nuttiness, and that classic pecan pie appeal.

How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Butter and Sugars

Begin by combining the melted butter with both light brown sugar and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and perfectly blended; this creates a sweet, buttery base that adds moisture and depth to the cookie dough.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, whisk in the whole egg, the egg yolk, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes glossy and luscious. This step ensures your cookies are rich and will have a tender crumb once baked.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. These dry components are essential for structure and subtle flavor nuances.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. The dough will be thick and a bit dense, which is exactly what you want; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Pop the dough into the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in the perfect cookie shape and texture.

Step 6: Preheat and Scoop

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion about 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space for them to expand slightly.

Step 7: Bake and Create Indents

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll want the edges set but the centers still looking a bit soft and tender. Once out of the oven, gently press down the center of each cookie with the back of a spoon to create a perfect well for the pecan topping.

Step 8: Prepare the Pecan Topping

While the cookies cool, combine butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture bubbles and thickens slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, cinnamon, and chopped pecans, letting the mixture cool until thick but still spoonable.

Step 9: Add the Topping and Set

Spoon the luscious pecan filling into the cooled cookie indentations. Allow the cookies to rest for about 20 minutes so the topping sets beautifully, creating a sticky, nutty center that’s pure heaven.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt over the pecan topping right before serving. This small touch adds a delightful contrast that makes the sweetness pop even more and gives your cookies a gourmet finish.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a decadent dessert experience. A cup of hot coffee or spiced chai also pairs perfectly, balancing the richness of the cookies with warmth and spice.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the cookies on a rustic wooden board with clusters of pecans and a few cinnamon sticks for a charming display. You can also stack them in a beautiful jar or tin wrapped with a ribbon, making an irresistible gift that’s just bursting with homemade love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. The pecan topping stays beautifully moist without making the cookie soggy, so each bite remains as wonderful as the day you baked them.

Freezing

If you want to keep these treats longer, freeze the cookies without topping for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before adding the pecan pie topping for the freshest, best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To warm up your cookies, pop them in a preheated 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This brings back that fresh-from-the-oven softness and makes the pecan topping melt delightfully on your tongue.

FAQs

Can I use toasted pecans for the topping?

Absolutely! Toasted pecans add an extra layer of nutty flavor and crunch, making the pecan pie cookies even more irresistible. Just be sure to let them cool before mixing into the topping.

What if I don’t have maple syrup? Can I substitute it?

While maple syrup contributes a unique depth to the topping, you can substitute with honey or light corn syrup. Each will slightly change the flavor profile, but your cookies will still be deliciously sticky and sweet.

Do I need both baking soda and baking powder?

Yes, using both gives the perfect rise and light texture to these cookies without making them cakey. The baking soda works with the brown sugar’s acidity, while the baking powder helps with gentle puffing.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Definitely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be mindful of the blend’s specific ingredients and adjust baking times if needed.

How long do these cookies last at room temperature?

Stored in an airtight container, Pecan Pie Cookies maintain their freshness and flavor for up to 7 days. The pecan topping holds up well, so they’re perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe is truly one of those special treats that bring smiles and that cozy feeling you crave from home-baked goodies. Once you try them, you’ll understand why these cookies are an instant favorite—packing all the charm and flavor of pecan pie into a perfectly portable cookie form. Don’t wait to start baking your batch and share the love with everyone around you!

Print