Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that brings comfort and joy with every bite, look no further than Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies. These cookies are an absolute delight, combining the rich flavors of buttery goodness and crunchy toasted pecans, all topped with a luscious brown sugar glaze. They have a way of making any moment feel special—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up these cookies. They fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that brings everyone running. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with a cup of coffee. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these cookies ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the buttery flavor and crunchy texture of these cookies—they’re sure to be a hit!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s holiday baking or just a sweet treat for yourself, these cookies are versatile.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake fresh cookies whenever you’re ready.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of toasted pecans and creamy glaze creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies is a breeze thanks to these simple and wholesome ingredients. You probably have most of them 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 flexible, allowing you to customize your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies to suit your taste! Here are some fun ideas:

• Add chocolate chips: Mix in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.
• Try different nuts: Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if you’re looking for a change.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for warmth and depth.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Toast Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5–7 minutes until they smell fragrant. Toasting enhances their flavor and adds that delicious crunch we love in these cookies.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, making your cookies soft and tender.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla Extract

Next, add in your egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. The vanilla adds warmth and sweetness that pairs perfectly with the buttery base.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour so that every cookie rises beautifully.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Gently mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies!

Step 6: Fold in Toasted Pecans

Now fold in those cooled toasted pecans. They add such delightful texture and flavor that you won’t want to skip this step!

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Scoop tablespoons of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each scoop as they will spread while baking.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake your cookies for about 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden but centers are still soft. This ensures you get that perfect chewy texture!

Step 9: Cool Before Glazing

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

Step 10: Make the Glaze

In a saucepan over low heat, melt together your butter and brown sugar. Stir in milk until smooth then remove from heat. Whisk in powdered sugar until you have a silky glaze—a key component of these delicious cookies!

Step 11: Drizzle Over Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cooled, drizzle that beautiful glaze over them. Let it set before indulging or storing away for later!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking can be a breeze with a few handy tips! Here are some pro suggestions to ensure your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies turn out perfectly every time:

• Use room temperature ingredients – Bringing butter and eggs to room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother dough that’s easier to work with.

• Don’t skip toasting the pecans – Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds an extra layer of richness, making your cookies even more delicious.

• Chill the dough if necessary – If your dough feels too soft, refrigerating it for about 30 minutes can help it firm up, leading to cookies that hold their shape better while baking.

• Keep an eye on baking time – Ovens can vary, so check your cookies at the lower end of the baking time. You want them lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center.

• Let glaze set before serving – Allowing the glaze to set not only improves presentation but also makes for less mess when handling and enjoying these delightful treats!

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Presenting your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies beautifully can elevate any gathering or cozy night in. Here are some ideas to make your cookies shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped toasted pecans – A sprinkle of additional chopped toasted pecans on top of the glaze adds texture and visual appeal.
• A dusting of cinnamon – For a warm, aromatic twist, lightly dusting cinnamon over the glazed cookies can enhance their flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or tea – Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat. The rich flavors complement each other wonderfully.
• Vanilla ice cream – Serve alongside a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast between warm cookies and cold creaminess.
• Fruit salad – A fresh fruit salad brings brightness and acidity that balances the sweetness of the cookies, making for a refreshing side option.
• Milk or plant-based milk alternatives – A classic pairing! Enjoy with a glass of cold milk or your favorite plant-based alternative; it’s perfect for dipping those cookies.

These serving suggestions will not only enhance your experience but will also delight guests at any occasion. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance and store them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to two weeks.
• To prevent sticking, place parchment paper between layers of cookies if stacking.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough by scooping it onto a baking sheet and placing it in the freezer until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be stored for up to three months.
• To bake from frozen, add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating

• To reheat cookies, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful cookies:

Can I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies without nuts?

Absolutely! You can omit the pecans or substitute them with another nut of your choice. Just know that this will change the flavor profile slightly.

How do I ensure my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are soft?

To keep your cookies soft, be careful not to overbake them. The edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain soft. Letting them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring helps maintain that softness too!

What can I use instead of brown sugar in Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (about one tablespoon of molasses per cup of white sugar) to mimic the flavor.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies as much as I do! They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family or simply enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. Baking is all about creating special moments and memories, so gather your loved ones and dive into this delicious adventure. Happy baking!