Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe 🍪🥧: Gooey Caramel Delight!

Indulge your sweet tooth with these irresistible Pecan Pie Cookies – a gooey caramel delight perfect for any occasion! With the rich flavors of pecan pie packed into a bite-sized treat, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite. Imagine the luscious combination of pecans, brown sugar, and buttery goodness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Pecan Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on the traditional pie, offering a handheld version that captures all the gooey goodness of the classic dessert. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy afternoon snack with a cup of tea. The balance of sweet, buttery, and nutty flavors makes them irresistibly delicious.

Not only are they mouthwatering, but these cookies are also easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. They offer the same satisfaction as pecan pie without the need for a fork and plate!

Context/Background

Pecan pie is a beloved dessert in the Southern United States, traditionally served during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. The pie features a rich custard filling made with pecans, butter, and sugar, sitting atop a flaky crust. This cookie version captures the essence of the pie, allowing for an effortless treat that can be enjoyed anywhere.

Recipe Details

Serves: 24 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup caramel sauce

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and brown sugar together in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
3. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a dough forms.
5. Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Make a small indentation in the center of each ball using your thumb or the back of a spoon.
8. Fill each indentation with a teaspoon of caramel sauce.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Cookies

• Ensure the butter is fully softened for easy mixing and the perfect cookie texture.
• Use high-quality caramel sauce for the best flavor.
• Toast the pecans beforehand for extra nutty richness.
• Chill the dough if it becomes too sticky to handle.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Pecan Pie Cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They also pair wonderfully with coffee or tea as a sweet afternoon treat. For holiday presentation, sprinkle some powdered sugar over the top for an elegant touch.

Storage and Leftovers

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a pecan pie lover or a cookie enthusiast, these Pecan Pie Cookies strike the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a must-try recipe. Give them a try at your next gathering or whenever you need a sweet indulgence. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare and how delightful they taste!

Recipe Notes

• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.
• Swap caramel sauce with chocolate ganache for a delicious twist.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a spiced flavor variation.