All the indulgence of pecan pie in a bite-sized treat!
These Pecan Pie Cookies are the perfect blend of buttery shortbread and gooey pecan pie filling. They’re a fantastic addition to holiday spreads, cookie exchanges, or anytime you crave the rich, nutty sweetness of pecan pie in cookie form. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re a quick way to impress your family and guests!
Why These Cookies Are a Must-Bake
Classic Flavors: The buttery base and sweet, sticky pecan topping bring all the nostalgia of pecan pie.
Quick and Easy: No rolling out dough or cutting required!
Portable Treats: Perfect for sharing, these cookies make pecan pie even more accessible.
Small Batch Option: Easily scale the recipe for your needs.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Cookie Base
Butter (½ cup, softened): Creates a tender, buttery texture.
Sugar (½ cup): Adds sweetness to balance the rich filling.
Egg Yolk (1): Helps bind the dough and adds richness.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances the flavor of the cookie base.
All-Purpose Flour (1¼ cups): Provides structure to the cookie.
Salt (¼ tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances the buttery flavor.
For the Pecan Filling
Chopped Pecans (½ cup): Adds the signature crunch and nutty flavor.
Brown Sugar (¼ cup): Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
Light Corn Syrup (¼ cup): Creates the gooey, sticky texture typical of pecan pie filling.
Butter (1 tbsp, melted): Adds richness to the filling.
Vanilla Extract (½ tsp): Complements the pecans and brown sugar.
Salt (Pinch): Rounds out the flavors.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined. The dough should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
- Shape the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a shallow indentation in the center of each ball.
- Prepare the Pecan Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Mix well until the filling is sticky and evenly combined.
- Fill and Bake
Spoon a small amount of the pecan filling into each cookie indentation, filling it to the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Baking Tips for Success
Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth dough.
Avoid Overmixing: Overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies.
Perfect Indentations: Use a teaspoon or the handle of a wooden spoon for uniform indentations.
Prevent Spreading: Chill the dough balls for 10–15 minutes before baking if your kitchen is warm.
Sticky Filling: If the pecan filling seems too sticky, a teaspoon dipped in warm water can help with scooping.
Serving Suggestions
Holiday Platters: Arrange with other festive cookies like thumbprints or sugar cookies.
Tea or Coffee Companion: Perfect alongside a cup of tea or coffee.
Ice Cream Pairing: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Refrigeration
Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
Freezing
Freeze unfilled cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Thaw, fill, and bake when ready.
Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie)
Calories: ~120
Carbohydrates: ~15g
Protein: ~1g
Fat: ~6g
Sugars: ~9g
Why Pecan Pie Cookies Are a Winner
These cookies are everything you love about pecan pie in a more manageable, snackable form. They’re quick to make, transport beautifully, and pack all the rich, buttery, and nutty goodness into every bite. Whether for a festive celebration or a midweek treat, Pecan Pie Cookies are guaranteed to impress.
So preheat that oven and let the sweet aroma of these irresistible cookies fill your kitchen!