Pecan Pie Cookies

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the best elements of pecan pie and cookies into one irresistible treat. The buttery cookie base provides a perfect vessel for the sweet, nutty filling, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. Plus, they’re much easier to serve and share than traditional pie slices, making them ideal for parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookie Base:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg yolk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Pecan Filling:

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

• 1/4 cup light corn syrup

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Preheat the 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.

3. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

4. 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.

5. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.

6. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indentation in the center of each ball.

7. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the filling is sticky and combined.

8. Spoon a small amount of the pecan filling into each indentation, filling to the top.

9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.

10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Nut Substitutes: I sometimes use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different flavor profile.

• Chocolate Lovers: Adding chocolate chips to the cookie dough or sprinkling them on top of the pecan filling before baking adds a delightful twist.

• Gluten-Free: I substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.

• Vegan Option: Replacing the butter with coconut oil and the egg yolk with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) works well.

• Spiced Up: Incorporating spices like cinnamon or ginger into the cookie dough or filling gives a seasonal twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing Baked Cookies: I keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: I freeze the unbaked cookie dough by forming the balls, placing them on a baking sheet, and freezing until solid. Then, I transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. I bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the dough and filling a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, I assemble and bake as directed.

Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?

Absolutely. Using dark corn syrup will give the filling a richer, more robust flavor.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking helps prevent excessive spreading.

Can I add chocolate to the filling?

Yes, I sometimes add mini chocolate chips to the pecan filling for a chocolatey twist.

How do I ensure the filling doesn’t overflow?

I make sure not to overfill the indentations and to create a deep enough well in the cookie dough to hold the filling securely.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Cookies are a delightful and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of traditional pecan pie. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether for a holiday gathering or a simple treat at home, these cookies are sure to impress.