Pecan Pie Cookies

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Pecan pie cookies have a way of bringing a warm, comforting vibe to any gathering.

These treats are like mini versions of that classic dessert, with all the cozy sweetness and crunch you’d expect, but in a bite-sized cookie.

They’re the kind of cookies that make people linger by the dessert table a little longer, sneaking “just one more” because they’re that irresistible.

Perfect for sharing or savoring solo with a mug of something warm, these cookies offer a little taste of indulgence in every bite—no fork needed, just pure pecan pie goodness in a chewy, golden cookie.

Table of Contents

Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons cornstarch
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon sea salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed light brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Pecan Topping

5 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ cup dark brown sugar
¼ cup maple syrup
1 ½ cups chopped pecans
Pinch of salt
¼ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Stir to blend and set aside.
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, and blend until smooth, scraping the bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring just until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the dark brown sugar, maple syrup, chopped pecans, and a pinch of salt. Cook this mixture for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, stir well, and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Using a large ice cream scoop, form ¼-cup portions of dough into balls and arrange them on the lined baking sheets. Space them out, then chill the dough balls in the fridge overnight or in the freezer for 1-2 hours.
When ready to bake, place the cookies in the oven and bake for 12-13 minutes or until the edges turn golden. As soon as you remove them from the oven, use the back of a measuring spoon to press a small indent in the center of each cookie.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, add a generous tablespoon of the pecan topping to each cookie. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for added flavor.

Essential Baking Tips For Perfect Pecan Pie Cookies

Creating pecan pie cookies that are delicious and visually appealing is all about the details. Here are some expert tips to help you bake the best batch:

Ingredient Temperature Matters: Use room temperature butter and eggs. This ensures that they blend together smoothly, resulting in a better cookie texture.
Mix Gently: Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle.
Chill Your Dough: Letting your dough chill for at least an hour helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavor. It’s worth the wait!
Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Extra Pecans for Texture: Don’t be shy about adding extra chopped pecans to the top of the cookies before baking. It adds crunch and looks fantastic!

What To Serve With Pecan Pie Cookies?

Enjoying your pecan pie cookies can be even more delightful with the right pairings. Here are some tasty suggestions:

A Scoop of Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream complements the nutty flavors beautifully and adds a refreshing contrast.
Warm Beverages: Pair your cookies with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate. The warmth enhances the flavors and creates a cozy experience.
Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce: Adding a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top elevates the cookies, providing a rich and indulgent finish.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, creamy texture that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies.

How To Store Pecan Pie Cookies?

To ensure your pecan pie cookies remain delicious for as long as possible, follow these storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3-5 days. This keeps them soft and chewy.
Refrigeration: For extended freshness, place them in the fridge. They can last up to a week while maintaining their flavor and texture.

Can Pecan Pie Cookies Be Frozen?

Yes, you can freeze pecan pie cookies! Here’s how to do it effectively:

Before Baking: Scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
After Baking: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. These cookies can be frozen for up to three months without losing their taste.

How Long Do Pecan Pie Cookies Last?

Understanding how long your cookies will last helps you enjoy them at their best:

Room Temperature: When stored properly, cookies last about 3-5 days.
Refrigerator: In the fridge, they stay fresh for up to a week.
Freezer: Frozen pecan pie cookies can last for up to three months, so you can enjoy them at a later date without sacrificing quality.

Variations For Pecan Pie Cookies

Mix things up by trying out these delicious variations for your pecan pie cookies:

Chocolate Pecan Cookies: Add chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet twist. The chocolate pairs wonderfully with the pecans.
Maple Pecan Cookies: Swap out some granulated sugar for maple sugar or add a touch of maple extract for a deeper flavor.
Spiced Pecan Cookies: Include a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the dough for a warm spice note that complements the pecans perfectly.
Nut-Free Version: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free treat that still has great texture and flavor.