Indulge in the delightful experience of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies. These cookies are not just a treat; they are a perfect blend of toasted pecans and creamy butter, topped with a rich brown sugar glaze. Ideal for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy evenings at home, they promise to impress everyone with their irresistibly buttery aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of toasted pecans and brown sugar creates a deliciously rich taste that will have you coming back for more.
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make an excellent gift or treat for friends and family, perfect for any gathering.
- Versatile: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even a sweet breakfast treat.
- Kid-Friendly: This recipe is fun to make with kids, who will love helping to mix and decorate!
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect batch of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some items you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easier, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies to perfection.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
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
How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
- Spread pecans on a baking sheet.
- Toast them in the oven for about 5–7 minutes until fragrant.
- Allow them to cool before adding to the cookie dough.
Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large bowl:
* Combine softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
* Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to cream until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add:
* One large egg
* One and a half teaspoons vanilla extract
Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
* Whisk together two and a quarter cups all-purpose flour, half a teaspoon baking soda, and half a teaspoon salt until evenly mixed.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mixture:
* Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 7: Fold in Pecans
Gently fold in:
* The cooled, toasted pecans using a spatula until evenly distributed.
Step 8: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet
Using a cookie scoop or spoon:
* Place dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 9: Bake Cookies
Bake in preheated oven for about:
* 10–12 minutes until edges are golden brown but centers are still set.
Step 10: Cool Cookies
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about:
* Five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 11: Prepare the Glaze
In a saucepan over low heat:
* Melt one fourth cup unsalted butter with one third cup brown sugar.
* Stir in two tablespoons milk or cream until smooth.
Remove from heat and whisk in three fourths cup powdered sugar until creamy.
Step 12: Drizzle Glaze Over Cookies
Once cookies are completely cooled:
* Drizzle glaze over each cookie.
Allow glaze to set before serving or storing them.
Enjoy your delicious Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.
With Coffee or Tea
- Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich. Add your favorite flavor for a delicious twist.
Decorate for Special Occasions
- Use festive sprinkles or edible decorations on the glaze for holidays or birthdays to make them extra special.
Gift Packaging
- Package cookies in decorative boxes or jars as gifts. They make charming homemade presents for loved ones.
Cookie Platter
- Arrange cookies on a platter with other treats like brownies and bars for a delightful dessert spread at parties.
Breakfast Treats
- Enjoy cookies as a sweet breakfast option alongside yogurt or fruit for a balanced meal.
How to Perfect Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
Achieving the perfect Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies is all about attention to detail. Follow these essential tips for the best results.
- Use room temperature butter: This ensures better creaming, resulting in lighter and fluffier cookies.
- Toast pecans properly: Toasting enhances their flavor, making your cookies even more delicious.
- Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cookies.
- Do not overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the texture light and airy.
- Cool completely before glazing: This prevents the glaze from melting into the cookie, allowing it to set nicely.
- Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some excellent choices to consider.
- Vanilla Ice Cream
A classic pairing that balances the rich flavors of the cookies with creamy sweetness. - Fruit Salad
Fresh fruits add brightness and contrast to the buttery notes of the cookies. - Chocolate Milk
The chocolatey goodness pairs surprisingly well with the nutty flavors of the cookies. - Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses can provide a savory counterpoint, enhancing your cookie experience. - Nutty Granola
Sprinkle granola atop yogurt or serve it on the side for added crunch and flavor variety. - Hot Chocolate
A warm cup of hot chocolate offers comforting warmth that complements these sweet treats perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to help you bake the perfect batch.
- Skipping the toasting step: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and brings out their natural oils. Don’t skip this step; it makes a significant difference in taste.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much after adding dry ingredients can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until everything is combined for a softer texture.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can result in dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale or spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
- Ignoring cooling times: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet is crucial for them to set properly. If you move them too quickly, they may fall apart.
- Rushing the glaze process: The glaze should be smooth and pourable. Make sure butter and brown sugar are well combined before adding powdered sugar to avoid lumps.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to keep cookies from sticking together.
Freezing Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
- Wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place wrapped cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw at room temperature before serving or glazing.
Reheating Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as it can make them tough.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing the cookie in for about 30 seconds. This method keeps them soft and chewy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies gluten-free?
You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for structure.
Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just remember that it will slightly change the flavor profile of your cookies.
How should I store my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. Just allow it to sit at room temperature before scooping and baking.
Final Thoughts
Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They are perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to festive gatherings. Feel free to customize them by adding chocolate chips or swapping out nuts based on your preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats with family and friends!
Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
Indulge in the irresistible delight of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, where the rich flavors of toasted pecans harmonize with creamy butter and a decadent brown sugar glaze. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy night at home. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and buttery aroma, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Easy to make and fun to decorate, these cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also an enjoyable baking experience for all ages.
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 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 toasted pecans
- For the glaze: 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp milk or cream
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Toast pecans on a baking sheet for 5–7 minutes until fragrant; cool.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture; mix until just combined.
- Fold in cooled toasted pecans.
- Scoop dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden; cool on the sheet for five minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Prepare glaze by melting butter and brown sugar over low heat; stir in milk or cream and then whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.
- Drizzle glaze over cooled cookies.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for better creaming. Experiment with different nuts or add chocolate chips for variety. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for later enjoyment.
