These Pecan Pie Cookies are like mini pecan pies in cookie form! Each bite has the buttery flavor of a classic pecan pie filling, nestled in a soft, chewy cookie base. They’re perfect for the holidays, gatherings, or when you’re craving a sweet, nutty treat with a touch of Southern charm.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
For the Pecan Pie Filling:
- 1/2 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped pecans.
Step 3: Form the Cookies
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
Step 5: Add Filling to Cookies
- Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in the center of each cookie dough ball.
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the pecan pie filling into the center of each cookie.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
These Pecan Pie Cookies are fantastic on their own or served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert. They make a great addition to holiday cookie trays and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cookies in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Indentation Tip: Make a deep indentation in each cookie dough ball to hold the filling securely as it bakes.
- Avoid Overfilling: Add just enough filling to each cookie to prevent overflow while baking.
- Baking Consistency: Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies to ensure even baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?
Yes, either light or dark corn syrup works well; dark will add a slightly richer flavor.
2. Can I substitute honey or maple syrup for corn syrup?
Corn syrup gives the filling its traditional texture, but you can use honey or maple syrup in a pinch for a different flavor.
3. How do I prevent the filling from spreading?
Make sure to create a deep indentation in the cookie dough and avoid overfilling with the pecan mixture.
4. Can I use pre-made cookie dough?
Yes, you can use store-bought cookie dough as a shortcut. Press the dough to form a cup shape, then add the pecan filling.
5. What’s the best way to chop pecans?
Use a knife to coarsely chop pecans, or pulse them a few times in a food processor for even pieces.
6. Can I use a different type of nut?
While pecans give the classic flavor, walnuts or hazelnuts can work as alternatives.
7. How can I keep the cookies chewy?
Avoid overbaking to maintain a chewy texture. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are golden.
8. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls. Thaw slightly, make the indentations, and add the filling before baking.
9. Can I make these cookies ahead?
Yes, these cookies are perfect for making ahead. Bake and store in an airtight container until ready to serve.
10. How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are ready when the edges are golden brown, and the filling is bubbly. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
Enjoy these Pecan Pie Cookies for a delightful, handheld twist on a classic dessert that brings all the flavors of pecan pie into each bite-sized treat!