Introduction
Get ready to indulge in the chewy, nutty goodness of these Pecan Pie Cookies! Perfect for your next gathering or a cozy night in. Every bite captures the iconic flavor of pecan pie in cookie form, bringing warmth and a sense of comfort that will delight your taste buds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- For the Cookie Base:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Pecan Pie Topping:
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 12 cookies
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, beat together the butter and granulated sugar until creamy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
3. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a dough forms. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
4. Gently flatten each dough ball and make an indentation in the center using your thumb.
5. For the topping, mix the pecans, brown sugar, cream, and vanilla in a small bowl.
6. Fill each indentation with a small spoonful of the pecan mixture.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden. Allow to cool on a wire rack before diving in.
Nutritional Information
Each cookie serves up a delightful treat at approximately:
Calories: 120 kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 7g
Sugars: 7g
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is creamy.
Step 3: Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla
Add the large egg yolk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl, beating until the mixture is well combined.
Step 4: Mix in Flour and Salt
Gradually mix in 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until a dough forms.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 6: Create Indentations
Gently flatten each dough ball and make an indentation in the center using your thumb.
Step 7: Prepare the Pecan Pie Topping
In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of finely chopped pecans, 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Step 8: Fill the Indentations
Fill each indentation with a small spoonful of the pecan mixture prepared in the previous step.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden.
Step 10: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before enjoying.
Notes
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are great for gatherings, parties, or as a sweet treat during a cozy night in with coffee or tea.
Nut Allergies
If you or your guests have nut allergies, you can substitute pecans with chocolate chips or leave the topping out entirely.
Variations
For added flavor, consider mixing in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough or topping mixture.
Cook techniques
Creaming the Butter and Sugar
Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing. Beat together the butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps to incorporate air and creates a lighter cookie texture.
Making the Cookie Dough
Gradually incorporate the flour and salt into the butter mixture to form a dough. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough cookies.
Shaping the Cookies
Roll the cookie dough into small balls and flatten them gently. Creating an indentation allows for the pecan topping to sit nicely in each cookie.
Preparing the Pecan Pie Topping
Combine finely chopped pecans with brown sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla. Stir until well combined to ensure an even distribution of flavors in the topping.
Baking
Bake the cookies until the edges are golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as they can quickly go from perfect to burnt.
FAQ
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute with other nuts such as walnuts or almonds, but the flavor profile will change slightly.
How should I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough or baked cookies. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to firm up before rolling it into balls.
Can I add chocolate chips to these cookies?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture of the cookies. Consider adding about 1/2 cup to the dough.
Conclusion
Indulging in Pecan Pie Cookies offers a delicious twist on a classic dessert, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful cookies!
