**Pecan Pie Cookies: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert**
If you love the rich, nutty flavor of pecan pie but want a fun, portable treat, look no further than **Pecan Pie Cookies**! These delightful cookies capture all the classic flavors of pecan pie in a bite-sized form, making them perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or just as a sweet snack any time of year. With a buttery cookie base, a gooey pecan filling, and a sprinkle of chopped pecans, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite.
### Why You’ll Love Pecan Pie Cookies
1. **Classic Flavor**: Enjoy the traditional taste of pecan pie in a cookie form—sweet, nutty, and utterly irresistible.
2. **Easy to Make**: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies can be whipped up quickly, making them perfect for both experienced bakers and beginners.
3. **Versatile Treat**: Great for holidays, parties, or just a cozy night at home, these cookies fit any occasion.
4. **Perfect for Sharing**: Their small size makes them ideal for sharing, and they can be easily packaged for gifts or dessert trays.
### Ingredients You’ll Need
#### For the Cookie Base:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
#### For the Pecan Filling:
– 1 cup pecans, chopped
– 1/2 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
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### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### Prepare the Cookie Dough:
**1. Cream the Butter and Sugars**:
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
**2. Add Egg and Vanilla**:
– Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
**3. Combine Dry Ingredients**:
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
**4. Chill the Dough**:
– Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape.
#### Prepare the Pecan Filling:
**5. Mix the Filling Ingredients**:
– In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, egg, and salt. Stir until well combined.
### Assemble and Bake:
**6. Preheat the Oven**:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
**7. Shape the Cookies**:
– Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
**8. Create a Well for the Filling**:
– Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to create a small well in the center of each cookie dough ball.
**9. Fill with Pecan Mixture**:
– Spoon the pecan filling into the well of each cookie dough ball, filling it generously but without overflowing.
**10. Bake the Cookies**:
– Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The filling may bubble slightly during baking, which is normal.
### Cool and Serve:
**11. Cool the Cookies**:
– Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**12. Enjoy**:
– Once cooled, these Pecan Pie Cookies are ready to be enjoyed! They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several days or refrigerated for a longer shelf life.
### Tips for Success
– **Pecan Choice**: Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor. You can also toast them lightly for added depth.
– **Mix and Match**: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or other nuts for a twist on the classic recipe.
– **Make Ahead**: The cookie dough can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. Just thaw before baking.
– **Serving Suggestions**: These cookies pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
### Conclusion
**Pecan Pie Cookies** are a delightful treat that brings the beloved flavors of pecan pie into a convenient cookie form. Whether you’re looking for a sweet addition to your holiday cookie tray or simply want a satisfying dessert, these cookies are sure to please. Their crunchy exterior, gooey filling, and rich nutty flavor will have everyone coming back for more. Give this recipe a try, and watch as these little gems become a staple in your baking repertoire!
