When it comes to the perfect pairing for your afternoon tea or coffee, nothing beats the nutty, buttery goodness of Butter Pecan Cookies. These delicate cookies are rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. With toasted pecans folded into a buttery dough and coated in sugar, these cookies bring a touch of elegance to your tea time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
- Quick to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
- Perfect for Tea Time: Their delicate texture and subtle sweetness make them ideal for pairing with tea, coffee, or even a glass of milk.
- Customizable: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or dip them in chocolate for a fun twist!
Ingredients for Butter Pecan Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delectable cookies:
- ¾ cup pecans
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ⅓ cup sugar, plus extra for coating
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
- Cup or glass (for pressing the cookies)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Toast the Pecans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 6–8 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool, then chop into small pieces. Toasting enhances their flavor, making the cookies even more delicious.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, whip the softened butter with ⅓ cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step creates the base for the cookies’ tender texture.
3. Mix the Dough
Add the vanilla extract, sea salt, and all-purpose flour to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix until a dough forms. Then, fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
4. Shape the Cookies
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Roll each ball in sugar to coat it lightly, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using the bottom of a cup or glass, press each ball down slightly to flatten. If cracks appear, gently press them back together with your fingers.
5. Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until they are set and lightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Pecans: Freshly toasted pecans add the best flavor and crunch to the cookies.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once the flour is added, mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
- Room Temperature Butter: Ensure the butter is soft to make creaming easier and achieve a smooth dough.
- Add a Twist: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for added warmth and spice.
Storing and Serving
- Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 2 months. Simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of Earl Grey tea, a frothy cappuccino, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
A: Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Q: Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
A: Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts make excellent substitutes.
Q: Why did my cookies crack?
A: Slight cracks are normal and give the cookies character. To minimize cracking, press the dough gently and patch any large cracks with your fingers.
Final Thoughts
Butter Pecan Cookies are the perfect way to elevate your tea time or satisfy a sweet craving. Their buttery, nutty flavor and delightful texture make them a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a fancy gathering or enjoying them solo with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to impress.
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