Pecan Pie Cookies

Name: Pecan Pie Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 egg; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup corn syrup; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup pecan halves

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the delightful combination of nutty flavors and sweet caramel in these Pecan Pie Cookies. Easy to make and baked to golden perfection, each cookie captures the essence of traditional pecan pie in a portable treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with a cup of coffee, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your dessert lineup.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-11-14T12:41:30.252Z

A Sweet Twist on a Classic

Pecan Pie Cookies offer a delightful twist on the traditional pecan pie, serving up all the beloved flavors in a more manageable form. You still get the rich, nutty essence of pecans paired with a sweet, caramel-like filling, making these cookies the perfect choice for dessert lovers. The buttery cookie base is not only easy to make but also provides the ideal canvas for the scrumptious topping, combining to form a cookie that feels both indulgent and comforting.

This recipe encapsulates the spirit of holiday baking, turning an iconic pie into bite-sized pieces of joy. Imagine gathering around with friends and family, sharing stories, and enjoying these cookies fresh from the oven. Their golden hue and inviting aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for memorable moments during festive gatherings.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it's a holiday celebration, a cozy afternoon with coffee, or a straightforward weeknight treat, Pecan Pie Cookies are incredibly versatile. They make an excellent dessert for gatherings, offsetting rich meals or serving as a light finish after a hearty dinner. Not only are they well-suited for special occasions, but they also shine brightly during simple moments, offering a touch of sweetness to your day.

Moreover, these cookies are easy to transport, making them an excellent option for potlucks or bake sales. Their appealing bite size allows people to enjoy them without the need for utensils, enhancing their grab-and-go nature. You can easily pack them in a tin or container, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious for days.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect Pecan Pie Cookies, be mindful of measuring your ingredients correctly. Using a kitchen scale can provide accuracy, especially when working with flour and butter. In addition, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. This step is crucial for creating that light and fluffy cookie texture that distinguishes great cookies from good ones.

Don’t skip the chilling step before baking. If your dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This helps solidify the fats in the dough, leading to a cookie that holds its shape during baking. For an added crunch and flavor, consider toasting your chopped pecans beforehand to elevate the taste profile further.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans

For the Topping

1/2 cup corn syrup
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup melted butter
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup pecan halves

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, beat together the butter, brown sugar, and sugar until smooth. Add in the vanilla and egg, mixing well. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Fold in the chopped pecans.

Shape and Bake

Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until golden.

Prepare the Topping

While the cookies are baking, mix together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla in a bowl. Once the cookies are done, remove them from the oven and spoon some of the topping mixture onto each cookie. Place one pecan half on top of the topping.

Final Bake

Return the cookies to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the topping is set. Let cool before serving.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Pecan Pie Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

Serve these cookies alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. They can also be garnished with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce if you want to make them even more decadent. With their rich flavor, these cookies are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to experiment with this Pecan Pie Cookies recipe by adding in different flavors or textures. For a hint of chocolate, consider mixing in chocolate chips to the dough. Alternatively, you could swap half of the pecans for finely chopped chocolate-covered nuts or toffee bits for an extra layer of flavor.

If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the amount of sugar in the topping. This adjustment will create a more balanced bite, especially if you enjoy the nutty flavor of pecans. Additionally, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a warm, spiced element that pairs wonderfully with the pecans.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts can be used as a substitute for pecans for a different flavor.

→ How should I store leftover cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.