If you love pecan pie but want a simpler, bite-sized treat, these Pecan Pie Cookies are the perfect solution! Imagine the rich, gooey filling of a classic pecan pie tucked into a soft, buttery cookie. It’s all the indulgence of your favorite holiday dessert in a cute, handheld version. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or just because these cookies are guaranteed to impress!
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Bite-Sized Bliss: All the flavors of pecan pie in a portable cookie form.
- Quick & Easy: Only 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Perfect for Sharing: Great for holiday parties, potlucks, or gifting to friends and family.
- Festive & Fun: The perfect treat to add to your holiday baking list!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookie Base:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar 🍚
- 1 large egg yolk 🥚
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍨
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
- 1/4 teaspoon salt 🧂
For the Pecan Filling:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans 🌰
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed 🍯
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup 🍯
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted 🧈
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍨
- Pinch of salt 🧂
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. 📄
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring just until the dough comes together. It should be slightly crumbly but hold when pressed.
Step 3: Form the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small indentation in the center of each cookie. 👍
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Filling
In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the filling is sticky and well combined. 🌰🍯
Step 5: Fill & Bake
Spoon a small amount of the pecan filling into each cookie’s indentation, filling it to the top. 🥄
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Your kitchen will be filled with the warm, sweet aroma of pecan pie!
Step 6: Cool & Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. 🍪✨
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the cookies with the pecan mixture, or it may spill over while baking.
- Make Ahead: These cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls and bake them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a delightful treat.
- These make fantastic additions to holiday cookie platters or gift boxes.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 120 per cookie
- Servings: 18 cookies
These Pecan Pie Cookies are a delicious way to get that classic pie flavor in a fraction of the time. Perfectly crisp on the edges, soft in the center, and bursting with gooey pecan goodness—every bite is a taste of the holidays! 🍪🥧❤️
Happy baking, and enjoy your sweet, nutty treats! 🎉🍪