Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, a delightful treat that brings together toasted pecans, creamy butter, and a rich brown sugar glaze. If you’re looking for a cozy snack or something special to share with friends and family, these cookies are just the ticket! They are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a sweet pick-me-up or as a star attraction at family gatherings and holiday celebrations. With their irresistible buttery aroma and melt-in-your-mouth glaze, they’re bound to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The steps are simple and straightforward, making it fun for bakers of all skill levels!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cookies! These treats are sure to bring smiles to faces young and old.
• Perfect Any Time: Whether it’s a quick breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, these cookies fit perfectly into your day.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch in advance and store them for those moments when you want something sweet on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies. You likely have many of these items in your pantry already!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up while still enjoying those delicious Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor that complements the pecans beautifully.
• Experiment with Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty taste.
• Try Different Extracts: Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist that adds depth to the flavor.
• Top with Sprinkles: For festive occasions, sprinkle colorful decorations over the glaze before it sets.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5–7 minutes until they become fragrant. Toasting enhances their nuttiness and makes your cookies even more delicious!

Step 2: Cream Your Sugars and Butter

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, resulting in soft cookies that melt in your mouth.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Once your mixture is fluffy, add in one large egg and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. The egg adds moisture while helping bind your ingredients together.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the dough—no one wants unevenly risen cookies!

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Gently mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix! This helps keep your cookies tender.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Now it’s time to fold in those cooled toasted pecans! Gently stir them into the dough so every bite has that amazing nutty crunch.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, place dollops of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave enough space between each cookie as they will spread slightly while baking.

Step 8: Bake Your Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft. Keep an eye on them; every oven is different!

Step 9: Cool Before Glazing

Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set without falling apart.

Step 10: Prepare Your Glaze

In a saucepan over low heat, melt together your butter and brown sugar. Once melted, stir in milk before removing from heat. Whisk in powdered sugar until smooth—this creates that dreamy glaze!

Step 11: Drizzle Over Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cool, drizzle that luscious glaze over each cookie using a spoon or fork. Let them set before serving or storing.

And there you have it—your very own batch of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you create the best Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies yet!

• Use softened butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature to ensure a creamy texture when mixing. This helps incorporate air into the dough, resulting in light and fluffy cookies.

• Toast the pecans: Toasting the pecans not only enhances their flavor but also adds a delightful crunch to each bite. The warm, nutty aroma will fill your kitchen and entice everyone around!

• Don’t overmix the dough: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than soft and chewy ones.

• Chill the dough (optional): If time allows, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can help improve the cookie’s texture and prevent spreading during baking. This results in beautifully shaped cookies!

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your cookie dough for an extra layer of warmth and spice. It’s a simple way to customize your cookies for different seasons or occasions.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not only delicious but also beautifully presentable! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve them.

Garnishes

• Chopped toasted pecans: Sprinkle some finely chopped toasted pecans on top of the glaze for added texture and visual appeal.
• Drizzle of caramel sauce: A light drizzle of caramel sauce over the glaze can elevate the sweetness and make each cookie even more indulgent.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs perfectly with these cookies, balancing out their sweetness while enhancing their buttery flavor.
• Ice cream: Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for a delightful dessert that takes your treat to the next level!
• Fresh fruit: A side of fresh berries or sliced apples provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies, making for a well-rounded snack.
• Milk: You can’t go wrong with a classic glass of milk! It complements the sweetness and richness of the cookies beautifully.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies in style. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors throughout the week or save them for a special occasion. Here’s how to store them properly, so they remain fresh and delicious!

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer freshness, layer cookies with parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to three months.
• For best results, glaze the cookies after thawing to maintain the glaze’s texture.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• If desired, drizzle fresh glaze over warmed cookies before serving.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delicious treats, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) or unsweetened applesauce for moisture.

How do I store my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use other nuts in my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer different flavors.

What makes Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies special?

The combination of toasted pecans and rich brown sugar glaze creates a uniquely comforting flavor that sets these cookies apart from ordinary recipes.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy and comfort in making these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! They are not only a delightful treat but also a wonderful way to create sweet memories in your kitchen. Whether it’s for yourself or loved ones, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Happy baking!