Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that embodies warmth and comfort, then you’ve found it with these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies. There’s something magical about the combination of toasted pecans and creamy butter that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. This recipe has been a cherished part of my baking repertoire, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick sweet treat or for family gatherings where everyone gathers around the dessert table.

These delightful cookies are not just about taste; they also bring joy to any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a festive celebration or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are sure to impress. Their soft texture paired with a luscious glaze is truly irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a delightful batch of cookies in no time.
• Family Favorite: The rich flavors and fun textures make these cookies a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake them in advance and store them for those unexpected guests or late-night cravings.
• Customizable: Feel free to play around with flavors and mix-ins to make them your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! These are the building blocks for our delicious Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, ensuring each bite is filled with flavor and warmth.

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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and tailor these cookies to your taste. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Try Different Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice note.
• Use Different Extracts: Experiment with almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the pecans on a baking sheet. Toast them for about 5–7 minutes until they’re golden brown and fragrant. This step enhances their flavor, making your cookies even more delicious!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, creating a softer cookie texture that melts in your mouth.

Step 3: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla

Add in one large egg along with the vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. The egg acts as a binding agent while adding richness to your dough.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed before combining them with the wet mixture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, mixing just until everything comes together. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your cookies tender!

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in your cooled, toasted pecans. The bits of nut will add both crunch and flavor throughout each cookie.

Step 7: Scoop onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dollops of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave enough space between each scoop so they can spread while baking.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden around the edges but still set in the center.

Step 9: Cool Before Glazing

Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling helps maintain their shape while allowing time for flavors to develop.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

In a saucepan over low heat, melt together butter and brown sugar until smooth. Stir in milk before removing from heat; whisk in powdered sugar until it reaches your desired glaze consistency.

Step 11: Drizzle Over Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cool, drizzle that luscious glaze over top! Allow it to set before serving or storing—if they last that long!

And there you have it! A batch of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies ready to be enjoyed by friends and family alike. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Making the perfect batch of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies is a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Use room temperature butter: This ensures that the butter creams properly with the sugars, leading to a light and fluffy cookie texture. Cold butter can make it difficult to achieve that desired consistency.

• Don’t skip toasting the pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds an extra crunch to your cookies. The warmth of the toasted pecans also helps release their natural oils, contributing to a richer taste.

• Measure flour accurately: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour—spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for precision.

• Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet: Letting them rest for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack prevents breakage and helps them set perfectly.

• Drizzle glaze while still warm: Glazing your cookies while they’re slightly warm allows the glaze to melt into the surface, creating an enticing shine and enhancing flavor absorption.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

These cookies are not just delicious; they can also be presented beautifully for any occasion! Whether you’re enjoying them at home or serving guests, here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some extra toasted pecans on top of your frosted cookies for added texture and visual appeal.
• Sea salt flakes: A light sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the flavors of both the cookie and glaze, providing a delightful contrast.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or Tea: These warm beverages complement the sweet, buttery flavors of the cookies perfectly, making for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a wonderful contrast in temperatures and textures, turning your dessert into an indulgent experience.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the sweetness of the cookies, offering a burst of freshness that complements their rich flavors.
• Milk: A classic pairing! The creaminess of milk helps wash down these rich treats and enhances their flavors even further.

Enjoy every bite of your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, whether they’re served solo or alongside these delightful treats!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors any time you crave a sweet treat. Making them in advance means you can snack on them throughout the week or have some ready for unexpected guests.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For optimal freshness, layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.
• Keep cookies away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, use low power and heat in 10-15 second intervals until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies!

Can I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup).

How do I ensure my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies stay soft?

To keep your cookies soft, avoid overbaking them. They should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.

Can I use other nuts for Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Absolutely! While pecans add a wonderful flavor, feel free to experiment with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.

How do I store my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies brings warmth and sweetness into your kitchen! The combination of buttery goodness and crunchy pecans is hard to resist. Enjoy making these delightful treats for yourself or to share with loved ones. Happy baking!