If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that brings buttery richness, nutty crunch, and irresistibly sweet frosting all in one bite, look no further than this Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe. Imagine tender, golden cookies bursting with toasted pecans, generously topped with a creamy vanilla glaze that melts on your tongue. It’s the perfect combination of texture and flavor that will have you reaching for seconds—and thirds! Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon treat or a festive gathering, these cookies are guaranteed to become an instant classic in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe is in its simplicity and wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the ideal balance of flavor, moisture, and texture that makes these cookies so special.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1 cup): Gives the cookies a rich, creamy base and tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and helps achieve a perfect golden bake.
- Brown sugar, packed (1/2 cup): Brings a hint of molasses aroma and chewy texture.
- Large eggs (2): Provide structure and help bind all ingredients seamlessly.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon): Infuses the dough and frosting with warm, inviting aroma.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): The sturdy base for the cookie dough’s chewy yet tender bite.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Ensures the cookies rise just enough for lightness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and amps up all other flavors.
- Pecans, chopped and toasted (1 1/2 cups): Deliver that essential buttery crunch that’s the heart of this cookie.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): The star ingredient for a smooth, luscious frosting.
- Milk (3 tablespoons): Helps achieve the perfect frosting consistency.
How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Start by beating your softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and airy—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial as it creates tiny air pockets that make your cookies tender and fluffy. Imagine that silky blend setting the stage for the magic ahead.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next to keep the dough smooth and well combined. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, which will add that cozy, aromatic back note running throughout the cookies.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. Overmixing here can make cookies tough, so a gentle hand is all you need.
Step 4: Fold in Toasted Pecans
Gently fold in the chopped, toasted pecans by hand so you maintain their crunchy texture. Toasting the pecans beforehand enhances their nutty flavor and adds an irresistible aroma that permeates the dough.
Step 5: Scoop and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to keep your cookies from sticking. Scoop dough onto the sheets in 2-tablespoon portions, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges turn a lovely golden color and the centers are just set—this ensures your cookies stay soft but have a slight crisp around the edges.
Step 6: Cool and Frost
Let the cookies cool completely on wire racks before frosting. To make the frosting, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and the remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable. Slather this glorious frosting over each cookie and, if you want to take things up a notch, sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top. Let the frosting set before you dive in to enjoy.
How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For that extra touch of elegance and crunch, sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or a little sea salt over the frosting. It highlights the nutty flavor and provides a beautiful contrast to the sweet glaze.
Side Dishes
Serve these cookies alongside a steaming mug of coffee, chai, or hot chocolate for a comforting treat. Alternatively, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies on a rustic wooden platter layered with parchment paper and fresh sprigs of rosemary or thyme for a festive feel. For gifting, stack them in a pretty tin or wrap them in cellophane tied with a ribbon—it’s sure to brighten anyone’s day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. The frosting might soften a bit, but the flavors will develop more deeply with time.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag. Frost them after thawing for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy a warm cookie, microwave an unfrosted cookie for about 10 seconds before adding the frosting. For frosted cookies, let them come to room temperature naturally so the frosting stays stable and creamy.
FAQs
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work beautifully and bring their own unique flavors, but pecans are classic for this recipe because of their buttery richness.
What if I don’t have powdered sugar for the frosting?
Powdered sugar is key for the smooth texture of the frosting, but in a pinch, you could blend granulated sugar until very fine. The frosting won’t be quite as silky, but it will still taste delicious.
How do I prevent the frosting from melting on warm cookies?
Always make sure cookies are completely cool before frosting them. If the cookies are even slightly warm, the frosting can melt and become runny.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just check the blend contains xanthan gum or add a small amount to help with texture.
What’s the best way to toast pecans?
Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Keep a close eye so they don’t burn but turn fragrant and golden.
Final Thoughts
This Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe is one of those joyful treats that feels like a cozy hug in cookie form. The blend of buttery dough, crunchy pecans, and sweet frosting makes it a timeless favorite that you’ll want to bake again and again. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the warm, nutty scent of pure comfort!
Print
Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are a delightful blend of rich, buttery dough mixed with toasted pecans and topped with a smooth, sweet vanilla frosting. Perfectly baked to golden edges with soft centers, they offer a decadent treat that combines nutty flavors with a classic sugary finish, ideal for any occasion or holiday dessert spread.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped and toasted
Frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt throughout the flour.
- Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet butter mixture, mixing just until all ingredients are combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the toasted chopped pecans by hand to evenly distribute them throughout the dough without breaking them down.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out 2-tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges of the cookies are golden brown and the centers are just set. Remove from oven and place the baking sheets on wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting: While the cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until the frosting is smooth and spreadable, adjusting the milk amount slightly if needed to reach the desired consistency.
- Frost Cookies: Once the cookies are fully cooled, spread a layer of the prepared frosting over the top of each cookie. Optionally, sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top of the frosting. Let the frosting set before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally.
- Do not overmix the dough after adding the flour to keep the cookies tender and soft.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting or sliding of the frosting.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free milk in the frosting.
