Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that wraps you in a cozy hug with every bite, then these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are just what you need! They’re soft, buttery, and topped with a luscious brown sugar glaze that makes them absolutely irresistible. I love making these cookies for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or even as a quick treat when friends drop by unexpectedly. The rich flavors of toasted pecans and creamy butter create a delightful experience that everyone will enjoy.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up a batch! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these cookies are sure to impress. Grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into the world of delicious baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these cookies ready in no time!
• Family favorite: Their sweet taste and delightful texture appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s at a potluck or simply with your loved ones at home, these cookies are meant to be enjoyed together.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare the dough ahead of time and bake whenever the craving strikes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies call for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Each one plays an important role in creating that perfect cookie texture and flavor.

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, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add chocolate chips: For a gooier treat, fold in some semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the pecans.
• Try different nuts: Walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes if you want to switch things up.
• Make them spicy: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra warmth and flavor.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Start by preheating 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 smell fragrant. This step enhances their flavor, making your cookies even more delicious!

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This process helps incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in soft cookies. Don’t rush this step; take your time!

Step 3: Mix in Egg and Vanilla

Add the egg and vanilla extract into your creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined—this adds moisture and sweetness that contribute to the overall flavor of your cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures an even distribution of baking soda throughout your cookie dough.

Step 5: Mix Dry into Wet Ingredients

Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies tender! Just mix until everything is combined.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in those cooled, toasted pecans. This step is where all that lovely crunch comes from—don’t skip it!

Step 7: Scoop onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dollops of dough onto lined baking sheets. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie; they’ll spread while baking!

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden but centers still look slightly soft. They’ll continue cooking on the baking sheet after being taken out of the oven.

Step 9: Cool Down

Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up but keeps them soft inside.

Step 10: Make That Glorious Glaze!

For the glaze, melt together butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in milk until smooth before whisking in powdered sugar until there are no lumps. This glaze adds that perfect finishing touch!

Step 11: Drizzle Over Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cooled, drizzle that delicious glaze over them using a spoon or piping bag. Allow it to set before enjoying or storing them away.

Now you’re ready to indulge in these delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking is an art, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies to perfection!

• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter creams better with sugars, creating a light and fluffy texture in the cookies.
• Toast your pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds a lovely crunch to your cookies, making each bite even more delicious.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to ensure your cookies remain tender and have a delightful texture.
• Cool before glazing: Allowing the cookies to cool ensures that the glaze sets nicely and doesn’t melt into the cookie, preserving its beautiful presentation.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an extra layer of warmth and spice.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Serving your homemade Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies can turn them from a simple treat into a delightful experience. Here are some fun ideas on how to present them!

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkling additional toasted pecans on top of the glaze adds texture and visual appeal.
• Sea salt flakes: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the glaze enhances the sweet flavor of the cookies and gives them a gourmet touch.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the buttery flavors perfectly, making it an ideal pairing for an afternoon snack or dessert.
• Fresh fruit salad: The brightness of fresh fruits like berries or citrus balances out the richness of the cookies, adding a refreshing touch.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast between warm cookies and cold creaminess that will wow your guests.
• Milk: A classic choice! A glass of cold milk pairs beautifully with these cookies, enhancing their sweetness while providing a nostalgic childhood feel.

Now that you have all these wonderful tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to share your delicious Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies with family and friends. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can bake a batch in advance and have delicious cookies ready to enjoy throughout the week. They store beautifully, so you can savor their delightful flavors even after a few days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze for 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label the container with the date. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then bake for 5–7 minutes until warmed through.
• This will help restore their soft texture and delicious flavor!

FAQs

You might have some questions about these delightful cookies. Here are some common inquiries that can help you!

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Absolutely! While pecans add a lovely flavor and crunch, you can substitute them with walnuts or even almonds if you prefer. Just make sure to toast them first for the best taste!

How do I achieve the perfect glaze on my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

For a smooth glaze, ensure that your butter and brown sugar are melted together completely before adding milk and powdered sugar. Whisk vigorously until there are no lumps, and drizzle generously over cooled cookies.

Can I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s suitable for baking to maintain the right texture.

How long do Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to one week at room temperature or three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! Their rich buttery flavor combined with toasted pecans makes them an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them yourself or sharing with friends and family, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!