Print

Easy Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

4.9 from 121 reviews

These easy Butter Pecan Cookies combine toasted pecans with a buttery, soft cookie dough for a deliciously nutty and sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The recipe features buttery toasted pecans folded into a tender dough, baked to golden perfection and perfect for cookie lovers who enjoy a rich, homemade flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Toasted Pecans:

  • 1½ cups pecans, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Cookie Dough:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Toast Pecans: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the chopped pecans and ¼ teaspoon of salt, then toast them, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes until they turn golden and aromatic. Remove from heat and allow the pecans to cool completely.
  2. Make Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of packed light brown sugar and ½ cup of granulated sugar for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy. Beat in the 2 large room temperature eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the cooled toasted pecans carefully to distribute evenly.
  3. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop 2-tablespoon portions of the dough and place them on the sheet spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for 11-13 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
  • The cookie dough can be chilled for up to 3 days before baking, which helps enhance the flavors and control spreading.
  • These cookies freeze well for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Keywords: butter pecan cookies, easy cookies, toasted pecans, homemade cookies, buttery cookies