Name: Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup packed light brown sugar; 1 large egg yolk, room temperature; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ½ cup packed light brown sugar; ½ cup light corn syrup; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ⅛ teaspoon salt; 1 ½ cups pecan halves, roughly chopped

Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe – the very thought conjures images of cozy gatherings and the rich, comforting flavors of a classic dessert, now in a delightful, bite-sized form! I’m thrilled to share a creation that captures all the beloved essence of traditional pecan pie but with the convenience and charm of a cookie. Forget the fuss of a full pie crust; these cookies deliver that iconic sticky-sweet, nutty filling nestled within a tender, buttery base.

Pecan pie itself boasts a proud history in American Southern culinary traditions, often taking center stage at holiday feasts and family celebrations. It’s a symbol of hospitality and delicious indulgence, deeply rooted in comfort and sharing. We’ve taken that cherished heritage and transformed it into something truly special.

Embrace the Convenience of Pecan Pie in a Cookie!

What we’ve done here is distill that beloved heritage into a portable treat, making it accessible for any occasion. People adore these cookies not just for their undeniable nostalgic taste – that perfect balance of sweet caramel notes and crunchy pecans – but also for their incredible texture, a delightful chewiness that melts in your mouth. This Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe offers all the joy of your favorite pie without the need for a fork, making it the ultimate grab-and-go indulgence or a charming addition to any dessert platter. You’ll find yourself reaching for ‘just one more’ before you know it!

Ingredients:

For the Cookie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Pie Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves, roughly chopped (reserve some halves for garnish if desired)

Preparing the Pecan Pie Cookie Dough

First things first, let’s get our cookie dough ready for these delightful Pecan Pie Cookies. In a large mixing bowl, using either a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer, cream together the softened 1 cup unsalted butter with ½ cup granulated sugar and ¼ cup packed light brown sugar. You’ll want to beat this on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is truly light and fluffy, and noticeably pale in color. This creaming step is absolutely crucial for incorporating air, which gives our cookies a wonderful, tender texture. Don’t rush it! I always make sure it looks like whipped cloud before moving on.
Next, we’ll add the wet ingredients that will bring richness to our Pecan Pie Cookies. Beat in the 1 large egg yolk and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Continue mixing on medium speed for another minute until everything is well combined and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure all the buttery goodness is incorporated. I find that using an egg yolk instead of a whole egg here helps to create a more tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie, perfect for holding that luscious pecan pie filling.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Make sure to whisk them thoroughly to distribute the leavening agent and salt evenly throughout the flour. This prevents pockets of unmixed ingredients in your final cookie.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Mix on low speed, just until the flour is incorporated and a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can lead to tough cookies, and we want our Pecan Pie Cookies to be delicate and tender. The moment you see no more streaks of flour, stop mixing.
Now comes a very important step for the structure of our Pecan Pie Cookies: chilling the dough. Gather the dough into a ball, flatten it slightly into a disc, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour. I often chill mine for 2 hours, or even overnight if I’m prepping ahead. Chilling the dough helps firm up the butter, which prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, ensuring they hold their shape beautifully for the filling. It also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.

Crafting the Pecan Pie Filling

While your cookie dough is chilling, let’s prepare the star of our Pecan Pie Cookies – the rich and gooey pecan pie filling! In a medium-sized heatproof bowl, melt the ½ cup unsalted butter. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals or over a double boiler. I personally prefer the microwave for speed, just be sure to watch it closely.
Once the butter is melted, whisk in the ½ cup packed light brown sugar, ½ cup light corn syrup, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, and ⅛ teaspoon salt. Whisk vigorously until all the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth. The corn syrup is key here for that classic pecan pie chewiness and shine. The egg helps to set the filling during baking, creating that delightful custard-like texture.
Finally, stir in the 1 ½ cups roughly chopped pecan halves. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the filling. If you have some extra pecan halves, you might want to reserve a few whole ones to press gently into the top of each cookie before baking for an extra touch of visual appeal. This filling is going to be incredibly fragrant and irresistible. Set the filling aside while you retrieve your chilled cookie dough.

Assembling and Baking Your Pecan Pie Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup, which is always a bonus when baking!
Retrieve your chilled cookie dough from the refrigerator. If it’s been chilling for a long time and is very firm, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to make it easier to work with. Using a small cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons) or by hand, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place these balls about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. I find this size perfect for a two-bite cookie that’s not too overwhelming.
Now, it’s time to create the perfect little nests for our pecan pie filling. Use your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon (a ½ teaspoon works wonderfully) to create an indentation in the center of each cookie dough ball. Be careful not to press all the way through to the baking sheet! You want to create a nice, deep well that can hold a generous amount of filling without overflowing. I like to re-roll the edges of the well slightly upwards after pressing to create a stronger “cup” for the filling.
Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the pecan pie filling into the center of each cookie dough indentation. Don’t be shy, but also don’t overfill, as the filling will expand slightly during baking. If you reserved any whole pecan halves, this is the perfect time to gently press one into the center of the filling on top of each cookie for a professional bakery look. The aroma from these Pecan Pie Cookies as they bake is going to be divine!
Bake the Pecan Pie Cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown and the pecan pie filling is set and bubbling slightly. The exact baking time can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them, especially during the last few minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cookie base looks cooked through and the filling appears firm and glossy. Do not overbake! Overbaked cookies will be dry and crumbly, and we want these to be perfectly tender.
Once baked, remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The filling will be very hot and gooey straight out of the oven, so resist the urge to bite into one immediately! As they cool, the filling will set further, achieving that classic pecan pie texture.
These homemade Pecan Pie Cookies are truly a labor of love, but oh so worth it! They capture all the comforting flavors of a classic pecan pie in a delightful, bite-sized package. Serve them at room temperature. They are fantastic for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or just a special treat for yourself and your loved ones. Enjoy every sweet, nutty bite of this wonderful Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe!

Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Cookies

Butter Temperature is Key: For the cookie base, ensure your unsalted butter is genuinely at room temperature – soft enough to make an indentation easily, but not melted. This is vital for proper creaming with the sugars, which creates the light, airy texture of the cookie. If it’s too cold, it won’t cream properly; if it’s too warm, your dough will be greasy and spread too much.
Precision with Flour: When measuring flour, always use the spoon and level method. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and then level it off with a straight edge. Scooping directly from the bag can compact the flour, leading to too much in your recipe and potentially dry, dense Pecan Pie Cookies.
Don’t Skip the Chill Time: The dough chilling isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a crucial step for the success of these Pecan Pie Cookies. It allows the butter to firm up, preventing the cookies from spreading excessively in the oven and helping them maintain their distinct well shape for the filling. It also allows the gluten to relax and the flavors to deepen. If you rush this step, your cookies might flatten out, and the filling could spill over.
Mind Your Oven: Every oven is a little different, so the baking time is always an estimate. Watch for visual cues: lightly golden edges on the cookie, and a filling that is set and gently bubbling. If you notice the cookie edges browning too quickly, you might need to adjust your oven temperature slightly or rotate the baking sheets halfway through. An oven thermometer can be a great investment for consistent baking.
Cool Completely: The pecan pie filling needs time to set up properly after baking. Resist the urge to move the Pecan Pie Cookies too quickly or eat them while piping hot. Transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely will allow the filling to firm up to that perfect gooey, yet stable, consistency. This also ensures the integrity of the cookie structure.
Storage: These Pecan Pie Cookies store wonderfully! Once completely cooled, you can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. I’ve even frozen them successfully for up to 2 months; just be sure to thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Presentation Matters: For an extra touch, you can lightly dust the cooled Pecan Pie Cookies with powdered sugar or drizzle a very thin caramel sauce over them just before serving. A whole pecan half gently pressed into the top of the filling before baking also adds a beautiful finishing touch that highlights the “pecan pie” aspect of these amazing cookies. Your homemade Pecan Pie Cookies will look as good as they taste!

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve reached the sweet finale of our journey through this delightful confection, and I truly hope you’re feeling as excited as I am about what we’ve just explored. This isn’t just another cookie or just another pie; it’s a harmonious blend, a culinary masterpiece that brings together the very best of both worlds. We’ve talked about the magic that happens when a buttery, almost shortbread-like base meets a rich, gooey, and deeply flavorful pecan filling, creating a bite-sized wonder that genuinely tastes like a miniature slice of heaven. I can tell you from personal experience that the moment you take that first bite, you’ll understand exactly why this particular treat has captured my heart, and why it’s destined to capture yours too. It’s the perfect combination of textures – the tender crumble of the crust yielding to the sticky, nutty embrace of the filling – all in one glorious package. No more wrestling with a full pie crust, no more worrying about slices holding their shape; just pure, unadulterated pecan pie bliss in a portable, utterly charming form. This recipe truly offers all the warmth, comfort, and nostalgic flavor of a classic pecan pie but with an added layer of convenience and a delightful cookie chewiness that makes it undeniably addictive. It’s the kind of dessert that elicits gasps of delight and requests for the recipe, making you feel like a true star in the kitchen without requiring hours of complex work. The depth of flavor, the perfectly toasted pecans, and the sweet, molasses-like notes of the filling are simply irresistible. Trust me, if you’re a fan of traditional pecan pie, this cookie version will not disappoint; it will, in fact, elevate your appreciation for this classic dessert to new, exciting heights.

Now, let’s talk about how to make these beauties shine even brighter, or how to put your own unique spin on them. While they are absolutely divine on their own, there are countless ways to enjoy and adapt them. Imagine serving these warm, perhaps fresh from the oven, with a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream melting slowly over the top – the contrast of warm and cold, gooey and creamy, is simply sensational. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add an elegant touch, or for a more decadent presentation, consider a delicate drizzle of homemade caramel sauce or a rich chocolate ganache. They pair wonderfully with a robust cup of coffee or a comforting mug of tea, making them an ideal afternoon pick-me-up or an elegant end to any meal. For holiday gatherings or special occasions, arranging them artfully on a dessert platter alongside other festive treats will surely make them the star. But don’t stop there with just presentation! Feel free to experiment with variations to truly make this recipe your own. For an adult twist, a tiny splash of bourbon or dark rum added to the pecan filling can introduce an incredible depth of flavor that complements the nuts beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating a handful of mini chocolate chips into the filling for a delightful chocolate-pecan fusion, or swap out a portion of the pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts for a slightly different nutty profile. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the filling can also add a subtle warmth that enhances the overall experience, especially during the colder months. And remember, these cookies freeze beautifully, so don’t hesitate to bake a double batch and save some for a rainy day or an unexpected craving. They are versatile enough to fit any occasion, from a casual family treat to a sophisticated party dessert, proving that big flavors can come in small, convenient packages.

So, what are you waiting for? This truly is a Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe that deserves a prime spot in your baking repertoire. I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into the joyous process of creating these masterpieces in your own kitchen. There’s an immense satisfaction that comes from baking something so delicious from scratch, and I promise you, the aroma alone will be enough to get your taste buds tingling. Don’t be intimidated; the steps are straightforward, and the rewards are immeasurable. Once you’ve experienced the magic of these cookies, I would absolutely love to hear all about it! Please, don’t keep your culinary adventures to yourself. Share your baking stories, your triumphs, and any clever variations you come up with. Did you serve them with a special topping? Did you add a secret ingredient? What did your family and friends think? Drop a comment below, or perhaps share a picture of your gorgeous creations on your favorite social media platform. Let’s build a community around delicious food and share the joy of baking. Your insights and experiences are incredibly valuable, not just to me, but to other readers who are also looking for inspiration. Every comment, every photo, every shared moment adds to the richness of our collective baking journey. This is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create, to share, and to savor. Go ahead, give this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe a try – I guarantee you won’t regret it. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how much you love them!