Introduction
Butter pecan cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of butter with the nutty crunch of pecans. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet treat. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, steps, variations, tips, and FAQs related to making delicious butter pecan cookies.
Ingredients
To make butter pecan cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
1. 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
2. 1 cup of brown sugar
3. 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
4. 2 large eggs
5. 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
6. 2 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
7. 1 teaspoon of baking soda
8. 1/2 teaspoon of salt
9. 1 cup of chopped pecans
In addition to these ingredients, you may also choose to add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies for an extra burst of flavor.
Steps
Follow these steps to make delicious butter pecan cookies:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until well combined.
5. Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
6. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
There are many ways to customize your butter pecan cookies to suit your preferences:
1. Add a handful of chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a decadent twist.
2. Substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
3. Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies for an elegant finish.
4. Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg into the dough for a warm and cozy flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins and flavor combinations to create your perfect batch of butter pecan cookies!
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your butter pecan cookies turn out perfectly:
1. Use room temperature butter for easier creaming with the sugars.
2. Do not overmix the cookie dough once the flour is added to prevent a tough texture.
3. Toast the pecans before adding them to the dough for a deeper nutty flavor.
4. Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and crunchiness.
Conclusion
Butter pecan cookies are a classic treat that never fails to impress with their buttery, nutty goodness. By following the simple steps outlined in this article and incorporating your own creative variations, you can enjoy homemade cookies that are sure to be a hit with family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and indulge in the irresistible taste of butter pecan cookies!
FAQs
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: While you can use salted butter, it’s best to stick with unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the cookies.
Q: How long do butter pecan cookies stay fresh?
A: When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, butter pecan cookies can stay fresh for up to one week.
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
A: Yes, you can shape the cookie dough into balls and freeze them. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Butter Pecan Cookies
Butter pecan cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of butter with the nutty crunch of pecans. These cookies are perfect for any occasion and are sure to impress with their buttery, nutty goodness.
Ingredients
-
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1 cup brown sugar
-
1/2 cup granulated sugar
-
2 large eggs
-
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
-
2 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
-
1 teaspoon baking soda
-
1/2 teaspoon salt
-
1 cup chopped pecans
-
Sprinkle of sea salt (optional)
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
-
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until well combined.
-
Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
-
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
-
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
