Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that warms the heart, you’ve come to the right place! Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are my go-to cookie for any occasion. With their rich buttery flavor and delightful crunch from toasted pecans, these cookies offer a cozy indulgence that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. They’re not just cookies; they’re a hug in dessert form!

I love how simple they are to whip up, making them ideal for those moments when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you bake a batch of these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, your friends and family will be begging for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These treats are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough in advance and freeze it. Just bake when you’re ready!
• Deliciously Irresistible: The combination of butter and pecans creates an amazing flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a cozy evening at home, these cookies fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, you’ll only need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need!

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

One of the best things about Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies is their flexibility! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Add Chocolate Chips: Toss in some semisweet or dark chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.
• Try Different Nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, feel free to substitute walnuts or almonds!
• Make Them Spice-Infused: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice twist.
• Create Mini Cookies: Scoop smaller portions of dough to create bite-sized treats perfect for sharing!

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Toast Pecans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important because it ensures even baking. While the oven heats up, spread your chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5–7 minutes until they’re fragrant. Toasting enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch.

Step 2: Cream Together Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together your softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mix, giving your cookies that lovely texture we all adore.

Step 3: Mix in Egg and Vanilla

Next, add one large egg along with the vanilla extract into your creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. The egg helps bind everything together while adding moisture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour so all cookies rise uniformly.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want tender cookies!

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in those cooled toasted pecans. Their crunchy texture will add wonderful contrast against the soft cookie base.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dollops of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure there’s enough space between each cookie as they will spread during baking.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden brown but centers are still set. Keep an eye on them; you want them perfectly baked but not overdone!

Step 9: Cool Before Glazing

Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for around five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step helps them firm up without breaking apart.

Step 10: Prepare Your Glaze

For that irresistible glaze, melt together unsalted butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in milk until smooth before removing from heat. Slowly whisk in powdered sugar until you achieve that beautiful glaze consistency.

Step 11: Drizzle and Enjoy!

Once cooled completely, drizzle that luscious glaze over each cookie. Let them set before diving into this deliciousness!

Now you’re ready to enjoy every sweet bite of these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking is all about having fun and experimenting, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies turn out perfect every time!

• Toast the pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch. This simple step makes a big difference in both taste and texture.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined helps prevent tough cookies. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, resulting in less tender cookies.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter and egg are at room temperature allows for better incorporation and a smoother dough, leading to a more consistent texture.

• Cool the cookies completely: Allowing your cookies to cool completely before glazing prevents the glaze from melting into the cookie. This ensures a beautiful finish and better flavor.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an extra layer of warmth. These spices complement the buttery pecan flavor beautifully!

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Presentation can elevate any dish, and these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are no exception! Here are some delightful ways to serve them that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkling additional chopped toasted pecans on top of the glaze adds texture and visual appeal.
• Drizzle of chocolate: For a touch of decadence, drizzle melted dairy-free chocolate over each cookie after glazing.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs wonderfully with these cookies, enhancing their rich flavors and offering a cozy snack experience.
• Vanilla non-dairy ice cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla non-dairy ice cream for an indulgent dessert that balances warm cookies with creamy coldness.
• Fresh fruit platter: The freshness of sliced apples or pears complements the sweetness of the cookies, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Milk alternative: A glass of almond, oat, or coconut milk not only balances sweetness but also brings out the richness of the butter in these delightful treats.

With these serving suggestions, your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are sure to shine at any gathering! Enjoy sharing these delicious bites with those you love.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not just delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making them an excellent treat for busy days or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge where they can last up to two weeks.
• To maintain their delightful glaze, separate layers of cookies with parchment paper.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to three months.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm cookies, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use the microwave in short bursts of 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.

FAQs

Have questions about these delightful treats? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans for Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Yes! While pecans lend a unique flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds for a different taste. Just make sure to toast any nuts you choose for that extra crunch!

How do I make the glaze for Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies thicker?

To thicken the glaze, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. If it gets too thick, mix in a little more milk or cream.

Can I use margarine instead of butter in Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter. However, it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of your cookies.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies as much as I do! They bring warmth and joy to any occasion, whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones. Remember, every bite is packed with love and delightful flavors. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your cookie adventures with me!