Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that envelops you in warmth and nostalgia, you’ll adore these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies. They are not just any cookies; they are a delightful combination of soft, buttery goodness and crunchy toasted pecans, all topped with a rich brown sugar glaze. Every bite feels like a cozy hug from a dear friend. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. They bring joy to every table and are sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.

These cookies are simple to make, making them ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. You can whip them up when you need a little something sweet or save them for special moments with loved ones. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these cookies come together quickly, making baking feel effortless.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead: Bake them in advance and store them for later—perfect for last-minute gatherings or sweet cravings!
• Deliciously Irresistible: The combination of butter and pecans creates an unforgettable flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you likely already have in your kitchen. Each component plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

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

This Frosted Butter Pecan Cookie recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or textures based on your preferences.

• Add Chocolate Chips: For an extra indulgent treat, fold in some semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the pecans.
• Try Different Nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, walnuts or almonds can be delicious substitutes.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet. Toast them for about 5–7 minutes until they’re fragrant and lightly golden. This step is crucial because toasting enhances their natural flavor and adds depth to each bite of your cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that delightful light texture we all love.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, mix in one large egg and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The egg helps bind your ingredients together while adding moisture, resulting in soft cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution when combined with the wet mixture—no clumps here!

Step 5: Mix it All Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. We want them tender and melt-in-your-mouth!

Step 6: Fold in Toasted Pecans

Once your dough is ready, fold in those cooled pecans delicately. Their crunch will provide a fantastic contrast to the soft cookie base.

Step 7: Scoop Onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, place dollops of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets about two inches apart. This spacing allows room for spreading as they bake.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Pop those trays into your preheated oven! Bake for about 10–12 minutes until the edges turn golden-brown but centers still look slightly underbaked—this will keep them soft.

Step 9: Cool Before Glazing

Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling helps set their shape so they won’t crumble when glazed.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt together 1/4 cup butter and 1/3 cup brown sugar until bubbly. Stir in milk until smooth before removing from heat. Whisk in powdered sugar until glossy—this glaze adds that irresistible finishing touch!

Step 11: Drizzle Over Cookies

Finally, drizzle your warm glaze over cooled cookies using a spoon or fork. Let it set before serving or storing so each cookie boasts its beautiful glaze!

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! They’re perfect alone with coffee or as a sweet treat shared with friends and family. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking is all about enjoying the process, so here are some handy tips to ensure your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and egg to room temperature helps them incorporate more smoothly into the batter, leading to a lighter texture in your cookies.

• Don’t skip toasting the pecans: Toasting enhances the natural nutty flavor of the pecans, adding depth and richness to your cookies that makes each bite irresistible.

• Chill your dough if needed: If you find the dough too sticky or difficult to handle, chilling it for 30 minutes in the refrigerator can make scooping and shaping easier while improving the cookie’s structure.

• Check for doneness early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cookies at about 10 minutes. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still slightly soft in the center – they will continue to firm up as they cool.

• Experiment with toppings: While a simple glaze is delightful, feel free to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed nuts on top for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Presenting your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies beautifully can enhance the overall experience. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just enjoying an afternoon snack, here are some creative ideas!

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans on top of the glaze not only adds a nice crunch but also enhances the flavor.
• Cocoa powder dusting: A light dusting of cocoa powder over the glaze gives an elegant touch and a hint of chocolatey flavor that pairs beautifully with caramel notes.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements these cookies wonderfully, balancing their sweetness with rich flavors.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that’s perfect for sharing.
• Fresh fruit platter: The bright acidity of fruits like strawberries or orange slices can cut through the richness of the cookies, making for a refreshing contrast.
• Milkshake: For a fun twist, pair these cookies with a homemade milkshake – think vanilla or caramel flavors that echo the buttery notes in the cookies!

Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! They’ll undoubtedly bring smiles all around.

Make Ahead and Storage

Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making them an ideal treat for busy days or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer freshness, consider placing a slice of bread in the container to keep them moist.

Freezing

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
• Once frozen, transfer cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place frozen or refrigerated cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Enjoy fresh, warm cookies with their delightful glaze!

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delightful cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

How do I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

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

Absolutely! You can replace pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts based on your preference.

What is the best way to store Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

The best way to store them is in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can use a flaxseed egg or applesauce as an egg substitute in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies as much as I do! With their wonderful flavor and texture, they’re sure to bring warmth and smiles to your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to share them with friends and family—these cookies are perfect for any occasion! Happy baking!