Pecan Pie Cookies
Pecan Pie Cookies capture all the gooey, nutty richness of traditional pecan pie in a perfectly portioned handheld treat. With a buttery shortbread-style base and a caramelized pecan topping, these cookies are a crowd-pleasing dessert for holidays, parties, or cozy nights in. They deliver all the warm flavors of pecan pie without the need for slicing or a fork.
Ingredients
For the cookie base:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
For the pecan filling:
1 cup chopped pecans
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix to combine
Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes if it feels too soft to handle
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart
Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each dough ball, creating a well for the filling
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to bubble and thicken slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans
Spoon a small amount of the pecan filling into the center of each cookie
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack
Notes
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days and stay soft with a chewy center. For extra texture, toast the pecans before adding them to the filling. If you prefer a crisper cookie base, bake a minute or two longer. Drizzling the cooled cookies with a bit of melted chocolate or caramel adds a festive finish for special occasions.
Find it online: https://richspoon.com/pecan-pie-cookies/