Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that warms the heart and delights the taste buds, then Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are just what you need! These cookies have a special place in my kitchen, as they combine the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans with a buttery softness that melts in your mouth. They make for the perfect snack on a busy weeknight or a lovely dessert to share at family gatherings. Trust me, once you bake these beauties, they will quickly become a go-to recipe for any occasion!

What makes these cookies even more special is how simple and rewarding they are to prepare. You’ll find that the delightful aroma of baking cookies fills your home, making it feel warm and inviting. Plus, who doesn’t love drizzling a sweet glaze over freshly baked cookies? Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious cookies ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone will adore these soft and crunchy treats; they’re perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time, and they stay fresh for several days—if they last that long!
• Irresistible flavor: The combination of butter, brown sugar, and toasted pecans creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just because, these cookies are sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are simple and wholesome. You might already have many of them in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful treats:

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 with your ingredients. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Change the nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
• Use flavored extracts: Experiment with almond or hazelnut extract instead of vanilla to give your cookies a unique twist.
• Make them vegan: Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based butters and milk to create delicious vegan versions.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Start by preheating 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’re fragrant. Toasting enhances their flavor, making the cookies even more delicious!

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is important because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that lovely soft texture.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, add in the large egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just combined; this adds moisture and flavor that makes each bite irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of ingredients when mixed into the wet mixture.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until everything is just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies!

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in those cooled toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough; their crunch adds wonderful texture.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Scoop generous tablespoons of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Leave space between each cookie so they can spread as they bake.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake your cookies for about 10–12 minutes or until their edges are golden brown. The centers should be set but still soft—they’ll firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Cool on Rack

Let them cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps them hold their shape without breaking apart.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

For the glaze, melt together unsalted butter and brown sugar in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in milk until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar until it’s velvety.

Step 11: Drizzle Over Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cooled, drizzle that luscious glaze over them! Allow it to set before serving—though I doubt you’ll be able to resist tasting one right away!

Now you’re ready to enjoy some delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies that will surely bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking these cookies can be a joy, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate your cookie game even further!

• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter mixes more easily with sugars, creating a lighter, fluffier texture in your cookies.
• Don’t skip toasting the pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and gives your cookies a wonderful depth that raw nuts simply cannot provide.
• Chill the dough if needed: If your cookie dough feels too soft to scoop, chilling it for 30 minutes can help it hold its shape better while baking.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Cookies can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly. Check them at the lower end of the time range for best results.
• Let the glaze set properly: Allowing the glaze to set ensures it won’t run off when you serve them, making for a beautifully presented treat.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not just delightful on their own—they also lend themselves beautifully to various serving ideas that will impress anyone who tries them!

Garnishes

• Chopped toasted pecans: Sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top of the glaze for added texture and visual appeal.
• A dusting of cinnamon: A light sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth and enhances the cozy flavors of your cookies.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit platter: Pairing these cookies with a vibrant assortment of fruits like strawberries, apples, or grapes offers a refreshing contrast to their richness.
• Coffee or tea: Brew up a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea to complement the buttery sweetness and make for a cozy snack time experience.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast when served alongside warm cookies, perfect for those indulgent moments.
• Warm spiced cider: A mug of warm spiced cider brings out the fall-inspired flavors in these cookies while creating an inviting atmosphere.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them fresh throughout the week. They store well and can even be frozen for later enjoyment, making them a convenient treat.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If layering cookies, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour.
• Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, place cookies on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until just warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies:

Can I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies without nuts?

Yes! If you prefer nut-free cookies, simply omit the pecans or replace them with chocolate chips or dried fruit for added flavor and texture.

How can I make the glaze for Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies thicker?

If you’d like a thicker glaze, add a little more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. Just remember that it should still be pourable!

How long do Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies will last about 5 days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing them.

What type of flour is best for Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

All-purpose flour works perfectly for these cookies. You can also experiment with gluten-free blends if needed!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! With their irresistible taste and comforting aroma, they’re sure to bring warmth to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them with your morning coffee, I invite you to savor every bite. Happy baking!