Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, then Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are just what you need. Picture this: the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home, inviting everyone to gather around the kitchen. These cookies strike the perfect balance between soft and crunchy, making them an ideal snack for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy evening with friends or planning your holiday baking, they’re sure to become a favorite.

What truly makes these cookies special is the combination of toasted pecans and a luscious brown sugar glaze. Each bite is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that feels like a warm hug. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll be on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike adore these sweet treats, making them great for sharing!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and enjoy fresh-baked cookies anytime.
• Delicious flavor: The rich taste of butter and toasted pecans makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses everyday staples that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies:

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your tastes or pantry supplies. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add chocolate chips: Swapping in some semi-sweet chocolate chips will add a delightful richness.
• Try different nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, feel free to use walnuts or almonds instead!
• Spice it up: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can give these cookies an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread your chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5–7 minutes until they’re golden and fragrant. This step enhances their flavor, adding that delicious nutty taste we love!

Step 2: Cream Together the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture and creates that lovely texture we want in our cookies.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, add in one large egg along with 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. The egg adds moisture while helping bind the ingredients together for perfect cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent so our cookies rise beautifully.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies—no one wants that!

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Now it’s time to fold in those cooled toasted pecans! Their crunch will provide fantastic texture against the softness of the cookie dough.

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

Scoop tablespoons of cookie dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving each scoop space to spread while baking. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes until edges are golden but centers are still soft.

Step 8: Cool Down

Once baked, let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up without becoming too hard.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

For that irresistible glaze, melt together 1/4 cup unsalted butter and 1/3 cup brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in two tablespoons of milk until smooth—this adds creaminess to our glaze.

Step 10: Drizzle Over Cookies

Remove from heat and whisk in three-quarters cup powdered sugar until everything is well blended. Drizzle this heavenly glaze over your cooled cookies using a spoon or fork.

Step 11: Let Set Before Serving

Allow the glaze to set before serving or storing these delicious treats. Enjoy every last crumb!

And there you have it—your very own batch of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! I can’t wait for you to try them; I’m sure they’ll bring as much joy to your kitchen as they have mine!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies can be a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use room temperature butter: This ensures that the butter creams properly with the sugars, creating a light and fluffy texture that’s essential for perfect cookies.

• Toast the pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor of pecans and adds depth to your cookies. It also gives them a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie base.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined prevents gluten development, which keeps your cookies tender and soft rather than tough and chewy.

• Chill the dough if needed: If your kitchen is warm, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can help prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.

• Experiment with flavors: While vanilla is classic, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the warmth of these cookies even further!

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Serving your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies can be as fun as baking them! Here are some creative ideas to present this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some finely chopped toasted pecans on top of the glaze for an appealing crunch and to highlight their presence in the cookies.
• Shaved chocolate: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing with shaved dark chocolate. The slight bitterness complements the sweetness perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso pairs wonderfully with these cookies, enhancing their buttery richness.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. The creaminess balances out the sweetness beautifully.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad provides a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies. Think berries or citrus for added brightness!
• Milk or Plant-Based Milk: A classic pairing! A cold glass of milk (dairy or plant-based) makes every bite even more satisfying and is perfect for dunking.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every sweet moment.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious treat ready whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you prefer softer cookies, place a slice of white bread in the container; it helps retain moisture.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies that might help you!

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

Yes! Feel free to substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different flavor. Just make sure to toast them for added crunch!

How do I achieve the best glaze for my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

For a smooth glaze, ensure your butter and brown sugar mixture is well combined before adding powdered sugar. Adjust milk quantity to reach desired consistency.

Can I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies without eggs?

Absolutely! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce (1/4 cup) for similar results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies as much as I do! Their delightful flavors and textures make them more than just a treat; they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twists on this recipe. Happy baking!