How to Make The Best Pecan Pie Cookies

Name: How to Make The Best Pecan Pie Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup corn syrup; 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Created by

Avery Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:02:29.294Z

These pecan pie cookies combine the best flavors of a traditional pecan pie in a delightful cookie form. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet treat any time of the year!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich pecan flavor with a buttery cookie base
Perfect balance of sweetness and crunch
Great for sharing with family and friends

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Pecan Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, making them a perfect dessert for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a family reunion, or just a casual get-together, these cookies are sure to impress. Their unique flavor profile and beautiful presentation will have your guests asking for the recipe.

Not only are these cookies visually appealing, but they also pack a punch with their rich pecan flavor. The buttery cookie base pairs perfectly with the sweet and crunchy pecan topping, creating an irresistible treat that is hard to resist. Serve them alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Pecan Pie Cookies, make sure to use room temperature butter. This helps in creaming the butter and sugars together smoothly, ensuring a light and fluffy cookie base. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the cookie dough after adding the flour, as this can result in tough cookies.

When it comes to the pecan topping, feel free to experiment with different nuts or flavorings. Adding a hint of cinnamon or a splash of bourbon can elevate the flavor profile and make these cookies even more special. Just be sure to chop the pecans finely for an even distribution of flavor and crunch.

Storage and Freezing Tips

These Pecan Pie Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead option for busy days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container once solid.

To thaw frozen cookies, simply leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. You can also warm them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their original texture. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime you crave a sweet treat!

Ingredients

Cookie Base

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

Pecan Topping

1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup corn syrup
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix the ingredients well to ensure an even distribution of flavors throughout the cookies.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix well. Gradually stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined.

Prepare the Pecan Topping

In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans, corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Assemble the Cookies

Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Make a small indentation in the center of each cookie and fill it with the pecan topping.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious pecan pie cookies with a cup of coffee or tea!

Why Pecan Pie Cookies Are a Crowd-Pleaser

Everyone loves a good cookie, and when you combine the flavors of pecan pie with the convenience of a cookie, you create a dessert that appeals to all ages. The combination of textures—from the soft, buttery base to the crunchy pecan topping—makes each bite a delightful experience. Plus, they’re easy to share, making them ideal for potlucks and bake sales.

These cookies are also a great way to introduce new flavors to those who may not typically enjoy pecans. The sweetness of the corn syrup and brown sugar contrasts beautifully with the nutty flavor of the pecans, creating a balanced treat that is sure to win over skeptics.

Variations to Try

If you want to put a fun spin on your Pecan Pie Cookies, consider adding chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a decadent chocolate-pecan combination. Dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the pecans, adding an extra layer of indulgence.

Another variation is to use different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, in place of pecans. Each nut provides a unique flavor and texture, allowing you to customize the cookies to your preference. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness if you choose to use a nuttier variety.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well.

→ What can I serve with these cookies?

These cookies pair well with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.