Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, look no further than Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! These cookies are a delightful blend of buttery goodness and crunchy pecans, topped with a rich brown sugar glaze that makes them simply irresistible. I love making these cookies for busy weeknights when I need a little comfort or for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy them. They bring back memories of cozy afternoons spent in the kitchen, and I just know they’ll become a favorite in your home too!

What makes these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies so special is their perfect balance of soft and crunchy textures. The toasted pecans add a wonderful nutty flavor, while the sweet glaze brings everything together beautifully. They’re not just great for dessert; they make an excellent snack or even a breakfast treat when you’re craving something sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip these cookies up in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These treats are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake whenever you’re ready for fresh cookies.
• Deliciously unique: The combination of butter and pecans creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you need to create these delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies:

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 parts about baking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to mix things up with these fun variation ideas for your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies:

• Add chocolate chips: Toss in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Substitute nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try walnuts or almonds instead!
• Incorporate spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavors and give your cookies a warm spice note.
• Make them gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5–7 minutes until they’re fragrant. Toasting enhances their flavor and adds that lovely crunch we crave!

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is key because it helps to incorporate air into your dough, giving your cookies their wonderful texture.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in one large egg followed by the vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The vanilla adds warmth and depth to our cookie dough—it’s truly one of those magical ingredients!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures an even distribution of baking soda throughout the dough.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Stir just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. We want them soft and tender!

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in those cooled toasted pecans into your cookie dough. Each bite should be filled with nutty goodness that complements the buttery flavor perfectly.

Step 7: Scoop onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave enough space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.

Step 8: Bake Your Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes until the edges turn golden brown but the centers are still set. This ensures they stay soft inside while developing a lovely crunch on the outside.

Step 9: Cool Before Glazing

Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up nicely without falling apart.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

While cooling, melt some butter with brown sugar in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in milk before removing from heat and whisking in powdered sugar until smooth—a delicious glaze that takes these cookies over-the-top!

Step 11: Drizzle Over Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cooled, drizzle that dreamy glaze over each cookie generously. Let it set before diving into this delightful treat!

With this easy recipe, you’ll have scrumptious Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies ready to share with family or enjoy all by yourself! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking is all about the little details, and these tips will help you create the most delicious Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies!

• Toast your pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor of the pecans, making them more fragrant and flavorful. Just a few minutes in the oven makes a big difference!

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined ensures that your cookies remain soft and tender. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies due to gluten development.

• Chill the dough if needed: If your dough feels too sticky, pop it into the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the butter, making it easier to scoop and shape.

• Use a cookie scoop: A cookie scoop ensures uniform size for even baking and provides perfectly shaped cookies that look professionally made.

• Let cookies cool completely before glazing: Allowing your cookies to cool ensures that the glaze sets nicely without melting into the cookie, keeping that delightful drizzle intact.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Presenting them well can enhance their charm—perfect for gatherings or a cozy treat at home!

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans on top: Sprinkle a few extra chopped toasted pecans on top of each cookie after glazing for added texture and visual appeal.
• Drizzle of chocolate: A light drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate can contrast beautifully with the glaze, adding an extra layer of richness.

Side Dishes

• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee pairs perfectly with these cookies, enhancing their buttery flavor and balancing sweetness.
• Herbal tea: A soothing herbal tea complements the rich flavors while providing a comforting beverage option.
• Ice cream: Serve these cookies alongside vanilla or caramel-flavored ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• Fresh fruit: A side of fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears adds a refreshing touch and balances the richness of the cookies.

With these serving ideas and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to enjoy your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can enjoy them fresh or store them for later, making them a fantastic option for those busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For optimal freshness, place parchment paper between layers of cookies.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm in the oven for 5-7 minutes.
• Optionally, drizzle with fresh glaze after reheating for that just-made taste.

FAQs

Got questions about making these delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies? Here are some common queries!

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts, almonds, or your favorite nut. Just be sure to toast them first for maximum flavor.

How long do Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies last?

These cookies will stay fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for about one week. If you freeze them, they can last up to three months!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies as much as I do! Their buttery goodness combined with toasted pecans creates a delightful experience that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy baking and savor every bite!