Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that combines warmth, sweetness, and a touch of elegance, you’ve found it with these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies. They’re perfect for cozy evenings at home or festive gatherings with friends and family. The blend of toasted pecans and creamy butter creates a delightful flavor that feels both comforting and special. Plus, the drizzle of brown sugar glaze takes these cookies to the next level, making them an instant favorite!

Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a busy weeknight treat or preparing for a holiday celebration, these cookies are sure to impress. Their delicious aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone in for a taste. Trust me, once you try these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, they’ll become a sweet staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe requires simple steps that even beginner bakers can follow with confidence.
• Family-friendly: Kids love them! These cookies are perfect for sharing and can brighten anyone’s day.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh whenever you need a sweet treat.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of buttery goodness and crunchy pecans makes each bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delightful cookies. You probably have most of these items in your pantry already!

• 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)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp milk or cream
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add chocolate chips: Mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Experiment with spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm spice note that’s perfect for fall.
• Try different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer something different.
• Make them gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5–7 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. This step is important because toasting brings out the rich flavor of the nuts and adds depth to the cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes. Creaming well helps create air pockets in the dough which leads to soft cookies.

Step 3: Mix in Egg and Vanilla

Add in one large egg along with the vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. The egg adds moisture while helping bind everything together, resulting in chewy cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution when added to the wet mixture.

Step 5: Bring It Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Gently fold in those toasted pecans that you’ve cooled down—this will give our cookies that delightful crunch!

Step 6: Scoop & Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dollops of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden but centers look slightly underbaked. This will ensure they stay soft inside.

Step 7: Cool & Prepare Glaze

After baking, let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they cool, make your glaze by melting butter and brown sugar together in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in milk before removing from heat and whisking in powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 8: Drizzle & Enjoy!

Once your cookies have cooled completely, drizzle that luscious glaze over them using a spoon or piping bag. Let it set before serving or storing—if you can resist eating them all right away!

With each step taken with care, you’ll end up with delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies that are sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

To ensure your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your butter and egg to come to room temperature helps create a smooth batter and ensures even mixing, resulting in soft, tender cookies.

• Don’t skip toasting the pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor of the pecans, adding depth to your cookies. It also gives them a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie texture.

• Chill the dough if possible: If you have time, refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help prevent spreading and yield thicker cookies with a chewier center.

• Watch your baking time: Every oven is different, so start checking your cookies a minute or two early. They should be lightly golden around the edges while still soft in the center for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.

• Experiment with frosting techniques: Don’t be afraid to get creative with how you glaze your cookies! Drizzling or spooning the glaze can give each cookie a unique look, making them even more inviting.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

These delightful cookies can be presented in several enjoyable ways that make them look as good as they taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, here are some ideas:

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle extra chopped toasted pecans on top of the glaze for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon on top adds warmth and complements the flavors beautifully without overpowering them.

Side Dishes

• Coffee: A classic pairing! The rich flavors of coffee balance out the sweetness of the cookies and create a cozy afternoon treat.
• Milk: The ultimate comfort drink! A glass of cold milk enhances the cookie experience, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing side that provides a burst of freshness. The acidity from fruits like apples or berries cuts through the richness of butter pecan cookies.
• Ice cream: For an indulgent dessert option, serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an irresistible treat.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any table! Enjoy every moment spent baking and sharing these delightful treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment, making them a convenient treat for any occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for about 5-7 days.
• If you need to stack cookies, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Frozen cookies can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use the microwave for 10-15 seconds per cookie for a quick warm-up.

FAQs

If you have questions about this cookie recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Absolutely! While pecans add a lovely flavor, walnuts or almonds can also work well in this recipe. Just ensure they are toasted for the best taste.

How do I achieve the best texture in my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

To get that perfect soft yet crunchy texture, be careful not to overmix your dough once you add the dry ingredients. Also, make sure not to bake them too long; they should be set but still soft in the center when pulled from the oven.

Can I make the glaze without milk?

Yes! You can substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or oat milk. Just ensure it’s unsweetened if you want to control the sweetness of your glaze.

What is the best way to toast pecans?

Spread pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes until fragrant. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies as much as I do! They’re more than just a sweet treat; they embody warmth and comfort with every bite. Perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, these cookies are bound to become a cherished favorite. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with delightful aromas!