Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that warms the heart and fills the home with delightful aromas, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies. These cookies are not just any dessert; they are a cherished family favorite that brings everyone together. The combination of rich butter, toasted pecans, and a luscious glaze makes each bite feel like a cozy hug. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe so special is how easy it is to whip up a batch. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Trust me, once you try these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, you’ll want to bake them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can have these cookies ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love helping out in the kitchen, and who can resist the delicious smell while they bake?
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a Tuesday afternoon, these cookies fit right in.
• Make-ahead goodness: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake fresh cookies whenever cravings strike.
• Irresistible flavor: The combination of buttery richness and crunchy pecans will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Each one plays an important role in creating that soft texture and delightful flavor we all love.

For the Cookie Dough

• 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! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some spice: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for an extra warm flavor profile.
• Try other nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer something different.
• Go chocolatey: Stir in some chocolate chips to the dough for an indulgent twist.
• Switch up the glaze: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or maple for a unique glaze.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Toast

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, take your pecans and spread them out on a baking sheet. Toasting them for 5-7 minutes brings out their nutty flavor and adds a lovely crunch to your cookies. Let them cool before mixing into the dough.

Step 2: Creaming Time

In a large bowl, cream together your softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is key because it incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies tender. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is combined smoothly.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. It’s important to mix these dry ingredients separately so that the baking soda distributes evenly throughout the dough—this helps your cookies rise perfectly!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; over-mixing can lead to tough cookies. Now it’s time to fold in those cooled, toasted pecans! This adds texture and flavor to each bite.

Step 5: Scoop & Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dollops of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave space between each scoop because they will spread as they bake. Pop them into your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes until their edges are golden but centers are still slightly soft.

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, let those warm cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set properly without falling apart.

Step 7: Make the Glaze

While those delicious cookies are cooling down, let’s prepare the glaze! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt together your unsalted butter and brown sugar until bubbly. Stir in milk (or cream) before removing from heat. Whisk in powdered sugar until smooth—this will create that dreamy glaze we all love!

Step 8: Drizzle & Enjoy!

Finally, drizzle that beautiful glaze over your cooled cookies. Allow it to set before diving in (if you can wait!). These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are now ready to be savored—enjoy every last crumb!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies can be a breeze with a few handy tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with softened butter and room temperature eggs helps create a well-emulsified dough, resulting in softer, fluffier cookies.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined prevents the cookies from becoming tough. Overworking the dough can develop gluten, leading to a denser cookie instead of the tender treat we want.

• Chill the dough if necessary: If your kitchen is warm or the dough feels too soft, chilling it for about 30 minutes can make it easier to scoop and shape while helping the cookies maintain their form during baking.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is different! Start checking your cookies at the lower end of the baking time range. You’ll want them to be golden on the edges but still soft in the center.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with your glaze or even sprinkle some extra toasted pecans on top before serving for added texture and flavor!

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to presentation. Here are some fun ideas to serve them up!

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans on top of the glaze adds an appealing crunch and enhances the nutty flavor.
• A dusting of cinnamon: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar can provide a warm spice note that complements the sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit platter: Pair these cookies with a colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like strawberries, apples, or grapes for a refreshing balance to their rich flavors.
• Coffee or tea: A steaming cup of coffee or tea makes for a delightful pairing, enhancing the buttery notes and creating a cozy experience.
• Ice cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent dessert option that takes these cookies to another level.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a healthy side dish that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cookies while adding creaminess.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat any day of the week. Whether you’re planning for a cozy gathering or want to indulge in something sweet throughout the week, these cookies can be made ahead and stored with ease.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, store cookies between layers of parchment paper.

Freezing

• Freeze unglazed cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• For glazed cookies, allow the glaze to set completely before freezing.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place them on a baking sheet and warm for about 5–7 minutes.
• Enjoy them warm with a fresh drizzle of glaze if desired!

FAQs

Have questions about making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies? Here are some common queries!

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

Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance it out. This will ensure your cookies don’t become overly salty.

How can I make my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, make sure not to overbake them. Remove them from the oven when they are just set in the middle. Additionally, chilling your dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help retain moisture.

What should I do if my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are too dry?

If your cookies turn out dry, it’s likely due to overbaking or measuring errors. Ensure accurate measurements and keep an eye on them while baking. You can also try adding a tablespoon of milk or cream to the dough next time for extra moisture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies as much as I do! Their delightful flavors and comforting texture make them truly special—perfect for treating yourself or sharing with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe; it’s bound to become a favorite in your home! Happy baking!