Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that feels like a warm hug, then Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are just the treat for you! These cookies combine the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans with creamy butter and a sweet glaze that makes each bite melt-in-your-mouth delightful. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something sweet to enjoy with your family or for festive gatherings when you want to impress your friends with a homemade treat. Trust me, once you try these cookies, they’ll quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even novice bakers can whip these up in no time!
• Family-friendly: Who can resist the combination of buttery goodness and crunchy pecans? Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s an afternoon snack or a holiday treat, these cookies fit right in.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake a batch ahead of time and freeze them for later. Just add the glaze before serving!
• Deliciously versatile: The flavors can easily be adjusted to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies requires simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Gather these goodies, and let’s get baking!

For the Cookies

• 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

For the Glaze

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp milk or cream
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different flavors or substitutions. Here are some ideas:

• Add chocolate chips: For those chocoholics out there, mixing in some dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips can take these cookies to another level.
• Use walnuts instead of pecans: If you prefer a different nut flavor, walnuts work wonderfully too!
• Make them spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an extra layer of warmth.
• Try a different glaze: Swap out the brown sugar for maple syrup in the glaze for a unique twist.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Toast Your Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet. Toast them for about 5–7 minutes until they’re golden and fragrant. This step is key because toasting enhances their flavor and adds that lovely crunch.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies soft and tender when baked.

Step 3: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla

Add one large egg and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. The egg helps bind the ingredients together while adding moisture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution throughout your cookie dough.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies. You want that perfect soft texture!

Step 6: Fold in Toasted Pecans

Gently fold in the cooled toasted pecans into your cookie dough. This not only adds flavor but also gives each bite that delightful crunch.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoonfuls of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes until edges are golden but centers are still slightly soft. This helps achieve that perfect chewy middle!

Step 8: Cool Before Glazing

Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling them slightly allows them to set properly without falling apart.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

While the cookies cool completely, melt butter and brown sugar together in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in milk or cream until smooth; then remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar until glossy.

Step 10: Drizzle Over Cookies

Once your cookies have cooled completely, drizzle that scrumptious glaze generously over each cookie. Let it set before serving or storing—this step adds an irresistible sweetness!

And there you have it—your very own batch of delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! Enjoy sharing (or keeping) these cozy treats with everyone you love!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking these cookies is a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can ensure they come out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with softened butter and room temperature egg helps create a smooth batter that incorporates air better, resulting in fluffier cookies.

• Toast the pecans properly: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch. Just be sure to watch them closely so they don’t burn!

• Don’t skip cooling on the baking sheet: Allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack helps them firm up and prevents breakage.

• Adjust glaze consistency: If your glaze is too thick, add a splash more milk; if it’s too thin, whisk in a bit more powdered sugar. This ensures you get just the right drizzle over your cookies.

• Store in an airtight container: To keep your cookies fresh and chewy for longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for several days!

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies not only taste amazing but also look beautiful when presented well. Here are some ideas to make your serving even more special.

Garnishes

• Chopped toasted pecans: Sprinkle some additional chopped toasted pecans on top of the glaze for added texture and visual appeal.
• A dusting of cinnamon: A light sprinkle of ground cinnamon over the glaze can add warmth and spice that complements the buttery flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or tea: These cookies pair wonderfully with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of these beverages enhances the cookie’s rich flavors.
• Milk: A classic choice that never fails! The creamy richness of milk balances out the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can offer a bright contrast to the buttery sweetness of the cookies, providing a light and fruity complement.
• Ice cream: For an indulgent treat, serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The cold creaminess pairs wonderfully with warm cookies!

Now that you’re equipped with tips and serving ideas, it’s time to enjoy baking (and eating) these delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats whenever the craving strikes. With a few simple storage techniques, you can keep them fresh and ready to indulge in at any time.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For optimal freshness, place a piece of parchment paper between layers of cookies.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 minutes, or until slightly soft.
• Alternatively, microwave individual cookies on a plate for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked feel!

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers may have about Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies.

Can I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. This will ensure that your cookies turn out just as delicious without the gluten.

How do I store Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them as directed above.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with walnuts or almonds if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. Just remember to toast them first!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies as much as I do! Their buttery richness and delightful glaze make them truly special, whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones. Enjoy every moment of baking, and don’t forget to savor each delicious bite. Happy baking!