Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies

There’s something truly special about capturing the rich, comforting flavors of classic pecan pie in a perfectly chewy cookie. These Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies deliver that familiar, delightful taste with a wonderfully soft and slightly gooey texture that melts in your mouth. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, bringing the essence of holiday gatherings right into your kitchen with every bite.

I love making these cookies for impromptu get-togethers or as a sweet treat to enjoy with my afternoon tea. They store beautifully, maintaining their delightful chewiness for days, making them a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeks. Plus, they always disappear quickly, a testament to their irresistible flavor and texture.

Why I Love This Recipe

These Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies are a true winner for so many reasons!

• Quick to Make: They’re ready in under 30 minutes.
• Incredible Flavor: They taste just like pecan pie.
• Perfect Texture: So wonderfully chewy!
• Impressive Results: They look and taste gourmet.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Store well for later enjoyment.

Seriously, making these easy pecan cookies is a joy every time.

Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is like setting the stage for a delicious performance! Each component plays a vital role in creating these amazingly chewy pecan pie cookies.

Core Ingredients

• Pecan Halves: These are the stars, bringing that classic nutty flavor and delightful crunch. I like to chop them roughly so you get nice bites in every cookie.
• All-Purpose Flour: This provides the structure for our delicious cookies. Spoon and level it for the best measuring.
• Sea Salt: Just a touch balances the sweetness and enhances all those wonderful flavors. It’s a flavor amplifier!
• Baking Soda: This little powerhouse helps the cookies spread and get that perfect chewy texture.
• Unsalted Butter: Creamy, rich butter is essential! Make sure it’s at room temperature; it really makes the creaming process better.
• Light Brown Sugar: This is key for that deep, caramel-like flavor and that irresistible chewy texture.
• Egg: It binds everything together and adds richness.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla elevates the nutty, buttery flavors.

Substitutions and Tips

Don’t worry if you’re missing an ingredient! Sometimes a little creative swapping saves the day. For the pecans, walnuts work well too if that’s what you have on hand. If you don’t have light brown sugar, dark brown sugar can be used, though it might add a slightly deeper molasses note. Remember, the exact amounts are right there on the printable recipe card below. These tips help make your Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies perfect every time.

How to Make Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies

Making these delightful Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies is a breeze! Follow these simple steps for a taste of pure comfort.

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread your pecan halves onto a baking sheet. Toast them for about five to seven minutes. Watch them closely! You want them to become fragrant and golden. Let the toasted pecans cool completely. Then, chop them into smaller pieces. Set these gems aside. Toasting them really deepens their flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Grab a medium-sized bowl. Whisk together your flour, sea salt, and baking soda. Uniform mixing is key here. This ensures even distribution. Think of this as building the cookie’s foundation.

Step 3: Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a larger bowl, begin creaming the butter and light brown sugar. Use an electric mixer for this. Beat them until they become light and fluffy. This process incorporates air. Proper creaming is vital for texture. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing at this stage.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture. Mix them together gently. Stop when you have a soft, sticky dough. It might seem quite soft; that’s okay! This is exactly what we want for chewy cookies.

Step 5: Add the Pecans

Gently fold in your chopped, toasted pecans. Distribute them evenly throughout the dough. Make sure every bite gets some pecan goodness. These nuts are the heart of our pecan pie cookies.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven again to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop your cookie dough onto the prepared sheets. Leave enough space between them. The cookies will spread as they bake. Bake for about 8 minutes. The edges should look golden brown. The centers might still appear slightly soft. This is perfect for chewiness!

Step 7: Cool and Reshape

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. Use a spatula or a glass to gently reshape their edges. This makes them look lovely and round. Then, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely. Enjoy your amazing Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies!

How to Store Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies

Proper storage keeps these Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies wonderfully chewy. Once completely cool, store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight at room temperature.

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature butter and eggs. This is crucial for proper creaming.
• Don’t overbeat the dough after adding flour. Stop when just combined.
• Bake until the edges are golden. The centers should look underdone for ultimate chewiness.
• Reshape gently with a spatula while warm. This ensures a pretty, round cookie.
• Toast those pecans! It really boosts their flavor for better Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Baking Sheets: Essential for baking. Cookie sheets work fine.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple. Any size will do.
• Electric Mixer: For creaming butter and sugar. A whisk works too.
• Whisk: For dry ingredients.
• Spatula: For folding and reshaping. A rubber spatula is great.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: Prevents sticking.

Serving Suggestions

These Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies are delightful on their own. They’re also amazing with a scoop of french vanilla ice cream. A warm mug of coffee or spiced apple cider is a perfect pairing. Serve them at holiday gatherings or bake sales. They truly are a versatile treat for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies dough ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! Chill the cookie dough in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This chilling time can even enhance the flavor. Roll into balls just before baking.

What happens if I overbake my cookies?

Overbaking will result in crispier cookies, losing that signature chewy texture. Bake them just until the edges are golden. The centers should still look a little soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I use pre-chopped pecans instead of toasting them?

While you can use pre-chopped pecans, toasting them first makes a big difference! Toasting really brings out their nutty flavor. It’s a simple step that elevates these pecan pie cookies significantly.

How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure your butter is softened, not melted. Also, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help control spread. This small step makes for beautifully shaped Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies.

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