Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, a delightful treat that combines toasted pecans, creamy butter, and a rich brown sugar glaze. Perfect for various occasions, these cookies are soft yet crunchy, making them an ideal snack or dessert. Their irresistible buttery aroma and melt-in-your-mouth glaze will surely make them a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering, holiday baking, or just a cozy night in.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of toasted pecans and creamy butter creates a rich, satisfying taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch to share with friends and family; they’ll appreciate the delicious gesture.
• Lovely Presentation: The frosted finish adds an elegant touch that makes these cookies great for gifting or serving at parties.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively; having multiple sizes helps manage different mixtures.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface for baking cookies evenly; ensures they cook properly without burning.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet; makes cleanup quick and easy.
• Saucepan: Ideal for melting butter and sugar together for the glaze; ensures smooth consistency.

Ingredients

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

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5–7 minutes until fragrant. Cool before adding them to your cookie dough.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla Extract

Add one large egg and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in the cooled toasted pecans into your cookie dough using a spatula.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Scoop generous amounts of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave space between each scoop as they will spread while baking.

Step 8: Bake Your Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes or until edges are golden brown and centers are set.

Step 9: Cool Cookies

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Make the Glaze

In a saucepan over low heat, melt together butter and brown sugar. Stir in milk or cream until well combined. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 11: Drizzle Glaze Over Cookies

Once your cookies have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over them. Let it set before storing or serving.

Enjoy your homemade Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies!

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple treat or a festive addition to your gatherings, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite coffee brew for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a decorative platter with fresh fruit and nuts for an inviting dessert table at parties.

With Ice Cream

• Top a warm cookie with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Gift Bags

• Package cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons to share as thoughtful gifts during holidays or special occasions.

How to Perfect Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Getting the best results from your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies is all about the details. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature butter: This allows for better creaming with sugar, resulting in a lighter texture.
• Toast pecans properly: Toasting enhances their flavor; watch them closely to prevent burning.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender and soft.
• Chill the dough if necessary: If it’s too warm, chilling can help maintain shape while baking.
• Monitor baking time closely: Ovens vary; check cookies a minute or two before the suggested time for perfect doneness.
• Let glaze set fully: Allow the glaze on your cookies to harden before stacking or storing them.

Best Side Dishes for Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies can elevate your snack experience. Here are some delightful options that complement their sweet, nutty flavor.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies.
2. Cheese Platter
   Include creamy cheeses like Brie or sharp Cheddar for a savory balance next to sweet treats.
3. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   The sweetness of strawberries dipped in chocolate pairs beautifully with buttery flavors.
4. Nutty Granola Bars
   These add crunch and nutty goodness, enhancing the pecan flavor in the cookies.
5. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, tangy accompaniment.
6. Herbal Tea Selection
   Offer soothing herbal teas such as chamomile or mint to complement the cookie’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some crucial details that can affect the final product. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Tasting: Always taste your dough before baking. This helps ensure the sweetness and flavor are just right.
• Not Toasting Pecans: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor significantly. Take a few minutes to toast them in the oven for a richer taste.
• Overmixing Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until ingredients are just combined for a softer texture.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated. Baking at the wrong temperature can result in undercooked or burnt cookies.
• Neglecting Cooling Time: Allowing cookies to cool on a wire rack is essential for achieving the right texture. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Layer with parchment paper to keep them separated.

Reheating Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on low power.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies that might help you out:

How do I know when Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are done?

The edges should be golden brown while the center remains soft. They will continue cooking slightly after being removed from the oven.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes! You can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just make sure to toast them as well for enhanced flavor.

What can I use instead of milk in the glaze?

You can use any non-dairy milk or fruit juice as a replacement in the glaze for a different flavor profile.

How long do Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies last?

These cookies stay fresh in an airtight container for about one week at room temperature or three months when frozen.

Can I customize the frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to add flavors like almond extract or cocoa powder to your frosting for variety.

Final Thoughts

Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to make. With their delightful combination of buttery goodness and toasted nuts, they make perfect snacks or treats for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different nuts or flavors in your frosting; these cookies are sure to become a beloved staple!

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Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, where warm, buttery goodness meets the rich crunch of toasted pecans. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to treat yourself. Their soft yet slightly crunchy texture, combined with a creamy glaze, makes them irresistible. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you can create a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds. Bake these gems and let their comforting aroma fill your kitchen, creating memories that will last long after the last cookie is gone.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp milk or cream
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes until fragrant.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in one large egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture; stir until just combined.
6. Fold in cooled toasted pecans gently.
7. Scoop dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each scoop.
8. Bake for about 10–12 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
9. Cool cookies on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
10. For the glaze, melt butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over low heat; stir in milk or cream until combined and whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.
11. Drizzle glaze over cooled cookies and allow it to set before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg