These Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies are all about warmth, coziness, and a whole lot of flavor. Imagine a soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie, studded with finely chopped pecans and topped with a glossy brown sugar frosting. Each bite is nutty, buttery, and just sweet enough perfect for when you’re craving a treat that feels special yet comforting.

Whether you’re whipping these up for a family gathering, a holiday treat box, or just because you deserve a cookie (or three), these brown sugar pecan cookies are sure to hit the spot. So preheat that oven, grab your mixing bowl, and let’s bake some cookies!

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Why You’ll Love These Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies 💖

These cookies aren’t your average chocolate chip or sugar cookie they’re packed with texture, flavor, and a touch of elegance:

Soft and Moist Texture: With butter and brown sugar in the dough, these cookies bake up tender and full of moisture.
Brown Sugar Frosting: The caramel-like sweetness of the frosting adds a delicious layer to these pecan-studded cookies.
Perfect for Sharing: One batch makes around 36 cookies, so there’s plenty to share or store for later!
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can make these anytime without much fuss.

Ingredients List 🛒

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these tasty, nutty cookies:

For the Cookies:

1 cup butter, room temperature
Tip: Softened butter blends easily and gives these cookies their rich, creamy texture.
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
Tip: Brown sugar brings a bit of caramel sweetness and helps keep the cookies soft.
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
Tip: This adds a touch of lift without making the cookies too puffy.
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
Tip: Finely chopped pecans add just the right amount of crunch without overwhelming the cookies.
36 pecan halves or chopped pecans, toasted (optional for garnish)

For the Brown Sugar Frosting:

1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup milk or cream (whole milk recommended)
1 tbsp butter or margarine
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Tip: Sifting the powdered sugar prevents lumps, making the frosting super smooth.

Step-by-Step Instructions 👩‍🍳

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

In the bowl of a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the butter mixture, beating on low until just combined. Stir in the chopped pecans for that lovely, nutty crunch.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This makes the dough easier to handle and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. Tip: If you’re short on time, even a quick 15 minutes in the fridge will help!

Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them. Using a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop, shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them a couple of inches apart on the prepared sheets.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the tops are no longer glossy. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Tip: If you prefer a slightly crispier cookie, bake an extra minute or two, but keep an eye on them!

Making the Brown Sugar Frosting 🍯

Now for the frosting that takes these cookies over the top! This brown sugar glaze is simple but incredibly delicious:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and milk. Stirring constantly, bring it to a gentle boil, then let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
Remove the pan from the heat and add the butter, stirring until it melts. Then, whisk in 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar until smooth and glossy. Tip: If the frosting feels too thin, add a little more powdered sugar. Keep in mind, though, that it will thicken up quickly as it cools!
Work quickly to spread about 1 tablespoon of frosting on each cooled cookie. Top with a pecan half or some chopped pecans if you like. The frosting will set and harden within a few minutes, so keep stirring if it starts to firm up in the pot.

Engagement Elements: My Go-To Cookie for Special Moments 🎉

I first tried these cookies at a friend’s holiday party, and I was instantly hooked. They were so soft, and that brown sugar frosting was like a revelation! Since then, they’ve become a family favorite that I make for birthdays, holiday gatherings, or even just cozy weekends at home. The smell alone makes my kitchen feel like a warm, welcoming bakery.

Another thing I love about these cookies is that they’re adaptable if I’m out of pecans, I’ll use walnuts, and they’re just as delicious. And if I’m feeling a little extra fancy, I’ll sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top of the frosting for a perfect sweet-salty combo.

Fun Variations & Customizations

These cookies are perfect as they are, but you can also try some fun tweaks to switch things up:

Switch Up the Nuts: Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts work well in this recipe if you’re out of pecans.
Add a Hint of Spice: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced twist.
Use Maple Glaze: Substitute maple syrup for the brown sugar in the frosting for a uniquely delicious variation.

Serving Suggestions: Pair with a Cup of Comfort ☕

These cookies are delightful on their own, but they’re even better when paired with something cozy. Here are a few serving ideas:

With a Hot Beverage: These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or spiced tea.
As an Ice Cream Sandwich: For an extra treat, sandwich a scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream between two cookies. It’s an indulgent dessert everyone will love!
Giftable Treat: Pack these up in a cute tin or bag, and they make a lovely homemade gift for the holidays or special occasions.

Closing: Let’s Get Baking! 🍪

These Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies are just too good to keep to yourself. I hope you love them as much as I do! They’re everything you could want in a cookie: soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet. So gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy the deliciousness!