Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies. These delectable treats combine the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans with the creamy goodness of butter, all topped off with a luscious brown sugar glaze. They are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them great for busy weeknights or special family gatherings.

What I love most about these cookies is how they bring people together. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or sharing them at a holiday party, they’re sure to be a hit. Plus, the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home is simply irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: These cookies are loved by both kids and adults alike—perfect for any occasion!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment; they taste just as good days later.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of buttery goodness and crunchy pecans creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. There’s something so satisfying about using fresh components to create a homemade treat!

• 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)
• 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 tweak it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add chocolate chips: Toss in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Try different nuts: Substitute walnuts or almonds if you’re not a fan of pecans—each brings its own unique flavor.
• Make them seasonal: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive twist during the holidays.
• Create mini versions: Scoop smaller amounts of dough to make bite-sized cookies that are perfect for sharing.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Toast the Pecans

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5–7 minutes until they’re golden and fragrant. This step enhances their nutty flavor and adds depth to your cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps give your cookies that lovely soft texture we all adore.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, add in one large egg along with the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. This step not only adds moisture but also infuses that wonderful vanilla aroma into your batter.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution throughout your cookie dough—a little trick that helps avoid any clumps!

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; we want just combined dough so that our cookies stay tender after baking.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Now comes the best part! Gently fold in those cooled toasted pecans until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. Their crunch will add such delightful texture to each bite.

Step 7: Scoop onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave some space between each scoop because they will spread while baking.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake your cookies for about 10–12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look set. Keep an eye on them; every oven is a bit different!

Step 9: Cool Before Glazing

Once baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period helps maintain their structure while avoiding breakage.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

In a saucepan over low heat, melt together 1/4 cup unsalted butter and 1/3 cup brown sugar. Stir in 2 tablespoons of milk, then remove from heat. Whisk in 3/4 cup powdered sugar until smooth—this glaze will elevate your cookies!

Step 11: Drizzle Over Cookies

Finally, once your cookies are completely cooled, drizzle that luscious glaze over each one. Allow it to set before serving or storing—though I doubt they’ll last long once everyone gets a taste!

Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Making the perfect Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies is all about attention to detail and a little love in the kitchen. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out beautifully every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter and ensures that everything blends together evenly, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cookie.

• Toast the pecans: Toasting not only enhances the flavor of the pecans but also adds an extra crunch to your cookies. It brings out their natural oils and makes them irresistibly nutty.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined helps maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle when folding in those dry ingredients!

• Cool before glazing: Allow your cookies to cool completely before adding the glaze. This prevents it from melting and ensures a beautiful finish that sets perfectly.

• Experiment with flavors: While this recipe shines with classic vanilla, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced twist that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

When it comes to serving these delectable cookies, presentation can elevate your treat from delightful to extraordinary! Here are some fun ideas to showcase your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some additional toasted pecans on top of the glaze for added texture and visual appeal.
• Caramel drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel sauce can add an indulgent touch that complements the buttery flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee is an excellent pairing, as its robust flavor balances the sweetness of the cookies.
• Hot cocoa: For a cozy treat, serve these cookies with steaming hot cocoa topped with marshmallows or whipped cream.
• Vanilla ice cream: Place a cookie on top of a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert duo.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the cookies, making it a refreshing side option.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, 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 not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch in advance, so you always have a sweet treat on hand for snacking or sharing.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For optimal freshness, layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow baked cookies to cool completely.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Cookies can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with that delightful glaze!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies that you might find helpful:

Can I use different nuts in Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Absolutely! While pecans add a lovely flavor, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just make sure they’re toasted for the best taste!

How do I store Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’re freezing them, ensure they are fully cooled and stored properly to maintain freshness.

Can I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies without eggs?

Yes, you can replace the egg with unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a binding agent.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies as much as I do! They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or just a sweet snack while relaxing at home. The blend of flavors and textures makes every bite special. So gather your ingredients, put on your favorite tunes, and bake away—your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your loved ones will be so grateful!