Butter Pecan Cookies
Butter pecan cookies are a timeless classic that combines the richness of butter, the sweetness of brown sugar, and the crunch of pecans. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, these cookies are a delightful treat to prepare and enjoy. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the process of making these mouthwatering butter pecan cookies step by step. From the essential ingredients to the baking instructions, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s start with the key ingredients you’ll need to create these delectable cookies:
| INGREDIENT | QUANTITY |
|---|---|
| Pecans, chopped | 1 cup |
| Unsalted butter | 7 tbsp. |
| Granulated sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1 tablespoon |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt (a pinch) | |
| Pecan halves (for topping) |
How to Make Butter Pecan Cookies
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the baking process:
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes light and creamy.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla Extract: Add the eggs and pure vanilla extract to the mixture, and beat again for approximately 2 minutes until well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Mix until all the ingredients are thoroughly blended.
- Form Cookie Dough Balls: Using a medium-sized cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the cookie dough and place it on the prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each cookie.
- Top with Pecan Halves: Take half a pecan and gently press it onto the top of each cookie. This will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Baking Time: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 to 15 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
- Cooling: Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Butter Pecan Cookies
- To enhance the flavor of your butter pecan cookies, you can lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the dough. This will release their natural oils and intensify their nutty taste.
- Don’t overmix the cookie dough after adding the flour, as this can lead to tough cookies. Mix only until the ingredients are combined.
- Experiment with different sizes of pecan halves on top of the cookies for a decorative touch.
- If you prefer a slightly softer texture, reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes.
In conclusion, making butter pecan cookies is a delightful experience that results in a batch of irresistible treats. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to please. Follow the simple steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying these delectable cookies with a perfect balance of buttery goodness and nutty crunch.
So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and embark on a delicious journey to create your very own batch of butter pecan cookies. Your taste buds will thank you!
