If you have ever wished you could hold a slice of that classic southern dessert in your hand, this Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. These cookies perfectly marry a soft, chewy sugar cookie base with a luscious, gooey pecan pie filling packed with rich maple syrup and warming spices. Whether you’re gearing up for a festive cookie exchange or simply craving the nostalgic flavors of pecan pie with a fun twist, these little hand-held delights deliver big on flavor and texture with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but well-selected ingredients is the secret to making these cookies shine. Each component plays a key role, from the tender cookie dough that forms the perfect base to the decadent pecan pie filling that brings sweetness, crunch, and those irresistible holiday spices.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the sturdy yet tender structure for the cookie dough.
- Cornstarch (1 tsp.): Adds softness and a lovely melt-in-your-mouth texture to the cookies.
- Baking soda and baking powder (1/2 tsp. each): Work together to give the cookies just the right lift without over-expanding.
- Salt (1/2 tsp.): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup + 6 Tbsp.): Adds richness to both dough and filling, giving that classic buttery flavor.
- Dark brown sugar (1/2 cup + 1/3 cup): Brings deep molasses notes and moisture to the dough and filling.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Creates the perfect sweet crunch in the cookie base.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp.): Enhances all the flavors with its aromatic warmth.
- Egg and egg yolk (1 each): Ensure tenderness and give the dough lovely chewiness.
- Pure maple syrup (1/3 cup): Introduces authentic pecan pie sweetness and a hint of caramel.
- Chopped pecans (2 cups): The star nut of the recipe, adding irresistible crunch and buttery flavor.
- Heavy cream (1/3 cup): Gives the filling a silky, luscious consistency.
- Ground cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg (1/2 tsp., 1/4 tsp., 1/4 tsp.): Infuse the filling with beloved warm spices.
- Flaky sea salt (for finishing): Adds a sophisticated hint of saltiness that makes the sweetness pop.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by mixing all your dry ingredients together in a large bowl—flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This mixture forms the foundation of your dough, ensuring consistent texture throughout. Then, with your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the cubed butter with both brown and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy; this step adds creaminess and sweetness to your base. Next, beat in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, helping the dough become rich and tender. Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mix, ensuring a harmonious dough that’s easy to shape.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out your dough into even balls. Then, gently press the back of a floured tablespoon into each ball to create a perfect little well—this will cradle the pecan pie filling beautifully. Chilling these shaped dough balls for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading while baking, maintaining their shape and giving you that ideal chewy texture.
Step 3: Make the Pecan Pie Filling
While the dough chills, heat butter, dark brown sugar, maple syrup, and chopped pecans in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring as they melt and bubble together to develop deep caramel flavors. Then add in the heavy cream along with your carefully measured spices and salt, letting the mixture bubble once more before removing it from heat. The filling may look runny when warm, but it will thicken delectably as it cools, perfect for stuffing your cookies.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Fill each dough cavity with about 2 teaspoons of the pecan pie filling—be careful not to overfill to avoid spillover. Bake six cookies at a time for 10 to 12 minutes, aiming closer to 10 minutes for that soft, chewy bite. Once out of the oven, swirl the cookies gently with the back of a spoon for neat circles, then top each with extra pecan filling and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that irresistible sweet and salty finish. Let them cool on the sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack and enjoy as the filling sets to perfection.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe even more, consider finishing them with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate. Both options complement the rich pecan filling and add an elegant touch that’s sure to wow guests.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea. The creamy, warm beverages balance the sweetness perfectly and make these treats great for dessert or an indulgent afternoon snack.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe on a holiday platter garnished with whole pecans and cinnamon sticks. Alternatively, stack them between layers of wax paper in a decorative tin for a charming gift idea. Their portable, self-contained nature makes them not only delicious but also perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and flavorful for up to five days, making them ideal to bake in advance for gatherings or to enjoy over several days.
Freezing
You can freeze both the baked cookies and the unbaked dough. For dough, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. For baked cookies, freeze in a sealed container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking, then thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To refresh your cookies, warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. This will revive their softness and make the pecan pie filling wonderfully gooey again, as if they just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! While pecans give an authentic flavor, chopped walnuts or almonds can be used for a different but equally delicious twist. Just keep in mind the texture and taste will change slightly.
Is it necessary to chill the cookie dough before baking?
Chilling helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, which maintains the perfect shape and chewy texture. While you can bake right away, chilling is highly recommended for best results.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum, you can enjoy gluten-free Pecan Pie Cookies. Just be sure to check the blend’s baking recommendations to ensure perfect texture.
What if I don’t have maple syrup for the filling?
If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, you can use molasses or honey as a substitute, but this will slightly alter the flavor and sweetness. Maple syrup provides a classic, rich note that complements the pecans best.
Can I prepare the pecan pie filling ahead of time?
Definitely! The filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before scooping into the cookie dough cavities, as it thickens when chilled.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you bake these Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe, they’ll quickly become one of your all-time favorites for holidays and beyond. The incredible balance of chewy cookie dough and that melt-in-your-mouth pecan pie filling is simply unforgettable. Bake a batch, share with loved ones, and enjoy every bite of this cozy, comforting treat!
