Introduction to Pecan Pie Cookies
If you’re a young professional looking for a quick yet delightful treat to brighten up your week, Pecan Pie Cookies should be at the top of your list! Combining the rich, nutty flavors of traditional pecan pie with the convenience of cookies, these bite-sized delights are the perfect solution for anyone juggling a busy lifestyle.
Why Pecan Pie Cookies are the Perfect Treat for Young Professionals
As we navigate the fast-paced world of work meetings, social gatherings, and self-care, a little indulgence can go a long way. These cookies not only satisfy that sweet tooth but also bring a warm, comforting flavor that feels like home. Imagine the joy of baking a batch over the weekend, savoring a cookie fresh from the oven, or sharing them with friends at a casual gathering.
They’re also easy to make and transport—perfect for a quick snack at the office or a delightful dessert at a potluck. Plus, if you’re looking for ways to impress your colleagues, these cookies are bound to be a hit! For inspiration and tips, check out this guide on how to elevate your baking game.
So grab your apron and let’s dive into this sweet adventure!
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Cookies
Creating Pecan Pie Cookies is easier than you might think! Let's dive into the ingredients you’ll need for both the cookie dough and the luscious pecan pie filling. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that irresistible flavor and texture.
For the Cookie Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1 tsp. cornstarch
- ½ tsp. baking soda
- ½ tsp. baking powder
- ½ tsp. salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
- ½ cup dark brown sugar (packed)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
For the Pecan Pie Filling
- 6 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup dark brown sugar (packed)
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 cups pecans (chopped)
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp. ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp. ground cloves
- ¼ tsp. ground nutmeg
- ⅛ tsp. salt
- Flaky sea salt (for finishing)
With these fresh ingredients, you’re sure to bake up a storm! If you’re curious about the health benefits of pecans, check out resources from Healthline to learn more. Enjoy baking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Pecan Pie Cookies
Preparing Pecan Pie Cookies may sound like a big endeavor, but trust me, it’s a delightful experience that results in buttery, nutty treats! Here’s a step-by-step guide to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Gather and Measure Your Ingredients
To start your baking adventure, you’ll want to assemble all the ingredients first. This not only saves time but also ensures you don’t miss anything important. Here’s what you need for the dough and filling:
For the cookie dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. cornstarch
- ½ tsp. baking soda
- ½ tsp. baking powder
- ½ tsp. salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
For the pecan pie filling:
- 6 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup dark brown sugar
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- Spices: ½ tsp. ground cinnamon, ¼ tsp. ground cloves, and ¼ tsp. ground nutmeg
- ⅛ tsp. salt
Make sure to measure accurately; baking is a science, after all!
Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix well and set aside. Then, in a stand mixer, cream the butter and sugars together until smooth. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla, blending until combined. Gradually add in the dry ingredients—this creates a smooth and rich dough. It should feel both soft and slightly sticky.
Once it’s ready, scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into balls. Using the back of a spoon (dipped in a bit of flour to prevent sticking), make an indent in each ball. This is where your luscious filling will go! Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes, or pop it in the fridge for later use.
Make the Pecan Pie Filling
For that signature pecan pie filling, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in dark brown sugar, maple syrup, and chopped pecans, letting it come to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the heavy cream along with the spices and salt. Allow this mixture to bubble for another minute or so—it will start out runny but will thicken as it cools.
Assemble the Cookies
When you’re ready to assemble your Pecan Pie Cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Take your chilled cookie dough and fill each indent with about 2 teaspoons of the pecan pie filling. Be careful not to overfill, as these cookies will spread!
Bake to Perfection
Place about six cookies on a baking sheet to allow room for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes, depending on how chewy or crispy you prefer. When they come out of the oven, you can give them a little swirl with a cup to make sure they’re perfectly round. For that extra touch, drizzle more filling on top if you have any leftover, and finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Let them cool for about ten minutes on the sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy the wonderful aromas wafting through your kitchen, knowing that you’ve crafted a delicious treat!
Explore more dessert recipes and tips for a sweet life!
Variations on Pecan Pie Cookies
Chocolate Pecan Pie Cookies
If you're a chocolate lover, these Chocolate Pecan Pie Cookies will hit the spot! Simply fold in a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into your cookie dough before adding the pecan pie filling. The rich, creamy chocolate against the nutty pecans brings a delightful contrast to each bite. For an extra indulgence, try drizzling melted chocolate on top after they cool!
Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Cookies
Staying gluten-free doesn't mean you have to miss out on these delightful pecan treats! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of your choice. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for better texture. These Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Cookies will be just as chewy and delicious as their traditional counterpart. You might find a new favorite!
Explore these variations and elevate your Pecan Pie Cookies game. Your friends and family will thank you! For more tips, check out this guide on cookie adaptations.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Pecan Pie Cookies
The Importance of Chilling the Dough
Chilling the dough isn’t just a suggestion; it’s vital for achieving the perfect texture in your Pecan Pie Cookies. This step helps the butter firm up, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. Aim to chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes, but feel free to let it sit for up to 24 hours if you're planning ahead. This extra time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your cookies even more delicious.
How to Avoid Overfilling the Cookies
When adding the pecan pie filling to your cookies, it's essential to resist the temptation to overfill. A tablespoon-size scoop of filling per cookie is sufficient. Too much can spill over and create a sticky mess. You can always add more filling on top after the cookies bake. This way, you’ll achieve that perfect balance of cookie and filling without compromising their shape.
Serving Suggestions for Pecan Pie Cookies
Pairing with Coffee or Tea
The rich flavors of Pecan Pie Cookies harmonize beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea. Try pairing them with a smooth, medium roast coffee for a delightful contrast, or enjoy them alongside a chamomile tea, enhancing the cookies’ nutty sweetness. The warmth of your beverage can also help to soften the cookies, making every bite feel like a warm hug!
Enjoying with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream
For an indulgent treat, serve your Pecan Pie Cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The creamy texture complements the chewy cookie base and crunchy pecan filling perfectly. You can even drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of decadence! Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this combination will definitely impress your guests.
For more delicious ideas, check out our recommendations on ice cream pairings and explore ways to elevate your dessert experience!
Time Breakdown for Pecan Pie Cookies
Preparation Time
Getting started with your Pecan Pie Cookies is easy! You’ll need about 20 minutes to assemble your ingredients and mix the dough.
Chill Time
To ensure the perfect texture, let the shaped cookie dough chill for 30 minutes to 24 hours. This step is crucial for great flavor and preventing spread during baking.
Baking Time
Once your cookies are ready, they’ll take 10-12 minutes in the oven. Just enough time to get that heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at approximately 1 hour (including chill time, if you bake right after mixing). Baking these delightful treats is well worth every minute!
For more details on mixing and baking, check out our full recipe here.
Nutritional Facts for Pecan Pie Cookies
Calories per Cookie
Each delicious Pecan Pie Cookie contains approximately 325 calories. That’s a satisfying treat without straying too far from your daily intake. Just think of this as a sweet reward after a long day!
Sugar Content
These cookies pack about 22 grams of sugar each. While they’re indulgently sweet, moderation is key to balancing your cravings with your dietary goals. Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful experience!
Key Nutrients
Packed with nutrients, each cookie also offers:
- 7 grams of protein: Great for a little energy boost.
- 1 gram of fiber: Helps with digestion.
- Saturated fat: At 9 grams, it’s important to keep in mind for heart health.
These cookies can be enjoyed guilt-free, especially when shared with friends or family! For a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits, consider exploring resources like Nutrition.gov.
FAQs about Pecan Pie Cookies
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Pecan Pie Cookies dough and shape it into balls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the shaped cookie dough in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven. This makes it a breeze to whip them up for a last-minute gathering or treat!
How should I store leftover cookies?
If you have any of your delightful Pecan Pie Cookies left over (though they might vanish quickly!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking!
What can I substitute for pecans?
If you're not a fan of pecans or have allergies, you can replace them with walnuts, hazelnuts, or even chocolate chips for a different twist. Just adjust the quantity to maintain the balance of flavors in your cookies. Each alternative brings its unique flair, so feel free to experiment!
Conclusion on Pecan Pie Cookies
Pecan Pie Cookies blend the warmth of traditional pecan pie with the convenience of cookies, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. With their chewy texture and rich, nutty flavor, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends. Bake a batch today and savor the joy!
For more delicious recipes, check out Food Network or America's Test Kitchen for inspiration!
Pecan Pie Cookies
Equipment
- Stand Mixer
- medium saucepan
- Cookie sheets
- parchment paper
- silicone baking mats
- Cookie scoop
Ingredients
For the cookie dough
- 2 cups all purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter cut into cubes
- ½ cup dark brown sugar packed
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk room temperature
For the pecan pie filling
- 6 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup dark brown sugar packed
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 cups pecans chopped
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- flaky sea salt for finishing
Instructions
Instructions
- Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl: all purpose flour, corn starch, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
- Place the cubed butter and sugars into the bowl of a stand mixer and secure the paddle attachment. Turn the mixer on and cream until smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add in the egg, egg yolk and vanilla extract and blend until mixed. Use a rubber spatula to knock off mixture if any is sticking to the sides of the bowl and mix again.
- Gradually add in the dry ingredients, about ¼ cup at a time. Mix until incorporated.
- Using a 2 tbsp. Cookie scoop, scoop and roll into balls. Then use the back of a tablespoon to make an indent in each cookie dough ball. Chill shaped cookie dough for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
- For the pecan pie filling: in a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, sugar, maple syrup, and pecans. Allow it to melt and then let it simmer for ~2-3 minutes.
- Then add in the heavy cream, spices and salt. Let it bubble again for 1-2 more minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Scoop ~2 tsp. of the pecan pie filling into the chilled cookie dough cavity. You don't want to add too much because it risks spilling over the sides and you'll add more on top when they’re out of the oven.
- Bake 6 cookies on a sheet at a time because they spread a little and bake for 10-12 minutes, I always bake for 10 minutes for the perfect chewy cookie!
- Swirl a cup around the cookies while they are warm to make perfect circular cookies. Add remaining pecan pie filling on top of cookies to make them look nice and full and finish with a sprinkling of flaky sea salt.
- Allow to cool on the cookie sheet 10 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely and allow the pecan pie filling to set up. Enjoy!
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