There’s something truly special about a cookie that captures the essence of a beloved dessert, and these Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies do just that. Imagine a perfectly tender, buttery cookie base, cradling a rich, gooey pecan pie filling that’s both sweet and nutty. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, from the slightly crisp edges of the cookie to the wonderfully sticky, caramelized topping.
These cookies are a fantastic treat for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a special weekend indulgence or a way to impress at a potluck. They store beautifully, making them a convenient option for enjoying throughout the week, and their comforting flavors are always a crowd-pleaser.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe for Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies is a winner. It delivers incredible flavor with surprising ease.
- Effortless Elegance: They look and taste gourmet. They are surprisingly simple to make.
- Weeknight Friendly: Perfect for a sweet treat. No huge time commitment needed.
- Crowd Pleaser: Guaranteed to be a hit. Your family and friends will rave.
- Pure Comfort: The classic pecan pie taste is pure bliss. It’s a comforting cookie.
Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies Ingredients
The magic of these Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies comes from a simple yet perfect combination of classic baking staples and the rich, comforting flavors of pecan pie. The buttery cookie base provides a sturdy, delicious foundation for the sweet, nutty topping.
For the Cookie Base:
- Salted Butter: Provides richness and a tender crumb.
- Granulated Sugar & Powdered Sugar: Contribute to sweetness and a soft texture.
- Canola Oil: Adds moisture and helps create a tender cookie.
- Large Egg: Binds the ingredients together.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: The structural backbone of the cookie.
- Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise and achieve a light texture.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
For the Pecan Pie Filling:
- Light Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a caramel-like sweetness.
- Dark Corn Syrup: Essential for that classic gooey, sticky pie filling texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Contributes richness and a smooth finish.
- Large Eggs: Thicken the filling and add richness.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweet, nutty notes.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness of the filling.
- Chopped Pecans: The star ingredient, providing crunch and classic flavor.
Substitutions and Tips:
- Butter: If you only have unsalted butter, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the cookie dough.
- Oil: Vegetable oil can be used interchangeably with canola oil.
- Corn Syrup: While dark corn syrup is recommended for depth of flavor, light corn syrup will also work.
- Pecans: Walnuts can be used as a substitute if preferred.
- Flavor Boost: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the filling can add an extra layer of warmth.
- Make Ahead: The cookie dough can be chilled for up to 2 days before baking.
How to Make Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies
Making these delightful Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies is a straightforward process. Just follow these steps closely. You’ll achieve that wonderful homemade taste easily.
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Station
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This prevents sticking. It also ensures easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Cream the Cookie Dough Base
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with sugars. Beat until light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the bowl often. Add the canola oil, egg, and vanilla. Beat until blended well.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt. Make sure they are evenly distributed. This step is important for consistent cookies.
Step 4: Form the Cookie Dough
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix the dough. Overmixing can make cookies tough. The dough will be thick.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop 1/4 cup dough balls for big cookies. Use 1 tablespoon for smaller ones. Roll them into smooth balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets. Gently flatten each ball. Press an indentation into the center. Use a 1/4 cup measure or your thumb. This creates a space for the filling. It makes perfect pecan pie cookies.
Step 6: Bake the Cookie Bases
Bake large cookies for 8-9 minutes. Bake smaller ones for 12-15 minutes. Watch for lightly golden edges. Let them cool slightly on the sheet. Then, transfer them to a wire rack. Let them cool more.
Step 7: Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling
While cookies cool, make the filling. Combine brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat. Stir until butter melts. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes. Keep stirring gently.
Step 8: Finish the Filling and Assemble
Remove the pan from heat. Whisk in eggs, vanilla, and salt. Mix until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans. Spoon the warm filling into the cookie indentations. Do this once cookies are slightly cooled.
Step 9: Allow to Set
Let the assembled Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies cool completely. Room temperature is fine. This sets the pecan pie filling. It makes them gooey. Patience ensures the best result.
How to Store Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies
Keep your delicious Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies fresh. Store them in an airtight container. This works best at room temperature. They are good for up to 3 days. Need them to last longer? Refrigerate them. They might firm up a bit. But they still taste wonderful. These cookies also freeze beautifully. Use a freezer-safe container. Mark layers with parchment paper. Freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Tips for Success
- Ensure butter for cookie dough is softened. Avoid melted butter. This yields the best texture.
- Avoid overmixing the cookie dough. This keeps your cookies tender and soft.
- Watch the Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies closely. Oven temperatures can vary greatly.
- Let cookies cool fully before serving. This allows the filling to set nicely.
- Use a cookie scoop. It ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowls are essential.
- A medium saucepan is needed.
- A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly.
- You can use a handheld or stand electric mixer.
- Measuring cups and spoons ensure accuracy.
- Baking sheets are required for baking.
- Have parchment paper or silicone mats ready.
- A cookie scoop helps with uniform size.
- A wire rack aids in cooling the cookies.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies warm or at room temperature.
- Pair them with a cold glass of milk. A hot cup of coffee is also great.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream. Vanilla ice cream is a delightful addition too.
- Garnish with extra toasted pecans. This adds visual appeal and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough for these Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies up to 2 days ahead. Store it tightly wrapped in plastic. Keep it refrigerated. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before scooping. This makes it easier to handle.
What can I use if I don’t have dark corn syrup?
If you can’t find dark corn syrup, light corn syrup works. Use it as a substitute in the pecan pie filling. It might slightly alter the flavor depth. The texture and sweetness will stay very similar though.
How do I get the perfect indentation for the filling?
To get the perfect indentation for the filling, use the bottom of a 1/4 cup measure. You can also use your thumb. Gently press into the cookie dough center. Do this after flattening the balls. Just create a well; don’t go all the way through.
Can I make these cookies nut-free?
These Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies really feature pecans. It’s hard to make them nut-free. You’d lose the authentic pie flavor. Consider another cookie recipe if you need a nut-free option. This recipe is not adaptable for that.
PrintCrumbl Pecan Pie Cookies
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 large cookies
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious copycat recipe for Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookies, featuring a buttery cookie base filled with a classic pecan pie topping.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) salted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup (59g) canola oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons (140g) light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup dark corn syrup
- 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, cubed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/3 cups (133g) chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add the canola oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough forms and is just combined. Do not overmix; the dough will be thick.
- Scoop out 1/4 cup portions of dough (for large cookies) or 1 tablespoon for mini cookies. Roll into balls.
- Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each ball with your hand, then use the back of a 1/4 cup measuring cup or your thumb to press an indentation into the center of each cookie to create a ‘crust’ for the filling.
- Bake for 8-15 minutes (8-9 minutes for large cookies, 12-15 for mini) or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet.
- For the Pecan Pie Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, dark corn syrup, and cubed unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the butter is melted and sugar is dissolved. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring.
- Remove from heat. Whisk in the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Assembly: Once the cookies are baked and cooled slightly, spoon the pecan pie filling into the indentations of each cookie.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely so the filling can set (at least 20-30 minutes). Enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the butter for the cookie dough is softened but not melted for best results.
- Do not overmix the cookie dough to prevent tough cookies.
- The baking time for the cookies will vary depending on the size and your oven. Keep a close eye on them.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving for the filling to set properly.