Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not just any dessert; they deliver a delightful combination of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The nutty crunch of toasted pecans paired with a rich, creamy glaze makes these cookies irresistible. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick treat or for family gatherings where everyone will be reaching for seconds.

I love making these cookies during the holidays, but honestly, they’re great any time of year. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself, you’ll find that each bite is packed with comfort and joy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, baking these cookies is a breeze.
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves the buttery flavor and crunchy pecans—kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these cookies fit right in.
• Make- Ahead Treat: Bake them in advance and store them for later; they taste delicious even after a few days!
• Irresistible Glaze: The brown sugar glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness that makes these cookies truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll find that each one contributes to the rich flavor and wonderful texture of the Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies.

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (toasted)

For the Glaze

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp milk or cream
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar

Variations

One of the best things about these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies is how flexible they are. You can easily switch things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
• Substitute Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds make delightful alternatives.
• Include Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to give your cookies extra warmth and flavor.
• Use Different Extracts: Swap out vanilla for almond extract to create a different taste experience.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Toast Pecans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, spread the chopped pecans onto a baking sheet and toast them for about 5–7 minutes until they’re fragrant. This step enhances their flavor and gives your cookies that lovely crunch.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat them until light and fluffy—this will incorporate air into your dough, making your cookies soft and chewy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. The egg acts as a binder while the vanilla adds warmth to the overall flavor profile.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agent so every cookie rises beautifully!

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix! This ensures your cookies stay tender instead of tough.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Now it’s time to fold in those toasted pecans! Gently mix them into your dough so every bite has that nutty goodness.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave enough space between each scoop; they spread out as they bake!

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Pop your baking sheet into the oven for about 10–12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden and centers are set but still soft.

Step 9: Cool on Rack

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time allows them to firm up without becoming too hard.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

While your cookies cool completely, melt together more butter and some brown sugar in a saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in some milk. Remove from heat, then whisk in powdered sugar until smooth—a heavenly glaze is born!

Step 11: Drizzle Glaze Over Cookies

Finally, drizzle your luscious glaze over each cooled cookie. Let it set before serving—or enjoy them right away if you’re feeling eager!

And there you have it! A batch of delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies ready to be devoured. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies is a breeze, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the butter and sugars cream together more effectively, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cookie.

• Don’t skip toasting the pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds an irresistible crunch to your cookies.

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon your flour into the measuring cup rather than scooping it directly from the bag. This prevents overpacking and results in softer cookies.

• Chill the dough if needed: If your dough feels too soft to scoop, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent spreading and gives you thicker cookies.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Since ovens vary, start checking your cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time. You want them golden at the edges but soft in the center.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Serving these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies can elevate your experience from delightful to extraordinary! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, here are some presentation ideas to consider.

Garnishes

• Chopped toasted pecans: Sprinkling a few extra chopped pecans on top of the glaze adds texture and visual appeal.
• Drizzle of caramel sauce: A light drizzle of caramel sauce over the glaze can enhance sweetness and provide a lovely contrast.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or soothing herbal tea pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of these cookies, enhancing their buttery notes.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serve these cookies warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that will impress anyone!
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies while adding a burst of freshness.
• Milk: A classic pairing! Enjoying these cookies with a glass of cold milk brings out all those creamy flavors beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are sure to be a hit at any occasion! Enjoy baking and sharing this sweet treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy their sweet, nutty goodness whenever a craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator where they can last for about a week.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delightful cookies.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Yes! While pecans add a unique flavor, you can substitute with walnuts or even almonds if you prefer. Just make sure to toast them first for the best taste!

How do I ensure my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies turn out soft?

To keep your cookies soft, avoid overbaking them. Remove them from the oven when the edges are just golden and allow them to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Can Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies be made vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based butter for a vegan version of these delicious cookies.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! Their inviting aroma and sweet flavors are bound to bring warmth to your home. Enjoy sharing them with family and friends or savoring them all by yourself. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!