Pecan Pie Cookies

Introduction

Pecan Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, combining the warm, rich flavors of toasted pecans, brown sugar, and corn syrup in a compact and easy-to-make cookie form. I recently tried making these cookies for a family gathering, and they were an instant hit. The buttery, slightly crumbly base paired with the gooey, nutty filling made each bite a perfect balance of textures and sweetness. They were so easy to make, and everyone, from kids to adults, couldn’t get enough of them. If you’re looking for a new treat to add to your holiday baking repertoire, Pecan Pie Cookies are a must-try!

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Pecan Filling:

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. The dough will be slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
4. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
5. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indentation in the center of each dough ball.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the filling is sticky and well combined.
7. Spoon a small amount of the pecan filling into each indentation, filling each cookie to the top.
8. Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 18 cookies
Calories: 120 per cookie

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

Pecan Pie Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are some ideas for serving:

• Serve as a sweet snack with coffee or tea.
• Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet treat.
• Include them in a holiday cookie platter.
• Serve them at a dessert buffet.
• Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature to easily cream it with the sugar for a smooth dough.
2. Chill the Dough: If the dough is too crumbly or difficult to work with, chill it in the fridge for 15-30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
3. Toast the Pecans: For an even richer flavor, toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the filling.
4. Add a Pinch of Cinnamon: For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of cinnamon to the pecan filling.
5. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Overbaking can cause the cookies to become too hard.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Pecan Pie Cookies: Add some mini chocolate chips to the pecan filling for a chocolatey twist on this classic cookie.
• Maple Pecan Pie Cookies: Swap the light corn syrup for maple syrup for a more distinct maple flavor in the filling.
• Nut-Free Version: Replace the pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version of this recipe.
• Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Cookies: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make these cookies gluten-free.
• Caramel Pecan Pie Cookies: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top of the filled cookies before baking to create a gooey, extra sweet topping.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a warm cup of spiced cider or hot chocolate during the winter months for a cozy treat.
• For a more festive touch, garnish each cookie with a sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving.
• Serve these cookies with a scoop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.
• Include them in a dessert table alongside other nut-based cookies like pecan sandies or walnut shortbread.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing the Dough: You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply add the pecan filling and bake as directed.
• Storing Baked Cookies: After baking, let the cookies cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Thawing Frozen Cookies: To thaw frozen cookies, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving, or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a whole egg instead of just the yolk?
   No, using the whole egg will alter the texture of the dough. Stick with just the egg yolk for the best results.
2. Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup?
   Yes, dark corn syrup will work, but it will give the filling a stronger flavor.
3. Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?
   Yes, you can use walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts as alternatives to pecans.
4. How can I make the dough less crumbly?
   If the dough is too crumbly, try chilling it for 15-30 minutes before rolling it into balls. You can also add a tiny bit of water or milk if necessary.
5. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the dough or even the cookies ahead of time. Store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake or serve.
6. Can I add chocolate to the filling?
   Yes, you can add small chocolate chips to the pecan filling for a sweet twist.
7. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
   The cookies should be golden brown around the edges and slightly soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
8. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   While you can use margarine, the flavor and texture might not be as rich as using real butter.
9. What other flavorings can I add to the dough?
   You can experiment with adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or a bit of almond extract to the dough for extra flavor.
10. Can I add a drizzle of caramel to the cookies?
    Yes, adding a drizzle of caramel over the baked cookies is a great idea for extra sweetness and a festive touch.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Cookies are a delicious, bite-sized treat that combines the classic flavors of pecan pie with the convenience of a cookie. Whether you’re baking for a holiday celebration or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to impress. With their buttery base and gooey, nutty filling, they’re an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. The recipe is easy to make, and with a few simple tips and variations, you can customize them to suit your taste. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy these delectable cookies with your family and friends!