Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve landed in the right place! Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are my go-to recipe when I want to bring a little sweetness into my day. Every bite delivers that delightful combination of crunchy toasted pecans and the rich, buttery goodness of the glaze. These cookies are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick treat or for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy something special. Trust me, once you bake these, they’ll become a cherished favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies, and these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are no exception – kids and adults alike will ask for seconds!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these cookies fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh whenever you’re ready!
• Irresistibly Delicious: The combination of toasted pecans and creamy frosting makes these cookies truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor and sweetness.
• Use Different Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.
• Experiment with Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor profile.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial as it ensures your cookies bake evenly from the moment they go in!

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

Spread your chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5–7 minutes until they’re fragrant. Toasting brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor, making your cookies even more delicious.

Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is important as it incorporates air into your mixture, giving your cookies that lovely soft texture.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Once your mixture is creamy, add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined; this adds moisture and flavor that will make each cookie melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing them separately ensures even distribution throughout your dough so every cookie has just the right balance of flavors.

Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

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

Step 7: Fold in Toasted Pecans

Gently fold in those cooled toasted pecans. They add such a wonderful crunch!

Step 8: Scoop onto Baking Sheet

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

Step 9: Bake Those Cookies!

Bake them for about 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft. It’s okay if they look slightly underbaked; they will continue cooking on the sheet after you take them out.

Step 10: Cool Before Glazing

Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set up perfectly without breaking apart.

Step 11: Prepare the Glaze

In a saucepan, melt together the butter and brown sugar over low heat. Stir in milk or cream until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar until you’ve got a glossy glaze.

Step 12: Drizzle Over Cookies

Finally, drizzle that delicious glaze over your cooled cookies using a spoon or piping bag. Let it set before diving into these delightful treats!

Now that you’ve got this cherished recipe down, I can’t wait for you to share it with friends and family! Enjoy every bite of your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

These tips will help you achieve the perfect batch of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, ensuring they turn out deliciously every time!

• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter blends more easily with sugars, creating a light and airy texture in your cookies, which is key for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Once you add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired soft and chewy texture.

• Cool the pecans completely: Allowing toasted pecans to cool before folding them into the dough prevents them from melting the butter and altering the cookie’s consistency.

• Adjust baking time for your oven: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. If they’re still too soft after 10 minutes, give them an extra minute or two.

• Let the glaze set: After drizzling the glaze over your cookies, give it some time to set. This not only enhances presentation but also ensures that each bite has a delightful balance of cookie and glaze.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Presentation can take your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies to another level! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve these delightful treats that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top of the glaze for a crunchy texture that complements the soft cookie underneath.
• Cinnamon Sugar: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar before serving adds a warm spice note that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the glaze.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the richness of the cookies. Think berries, citrus segments, and perhaps some juicy melon.

• Coffee or Tea: Pair your cookies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. The warmth and flavors of these beverages enhance the buttery notes in your cookies perfectly.

• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream alongside your cookies creates a delicious combination. The cold creaminess balances out the warm, sugary treat wonderfully.

• Milk: Don’t underestimate a classic glass of milk! It’s a timeless pairing that complements sweet baked goods like these cookies while offering a nostalgic touch.

Now you’re equipped with all you need to create and serve amazing Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance to enjoy throughout the week or to have on hand for unexpected guests. Here’s how to keep your cookies fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They should stay fresh for up to one week.
• For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• To freeze cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the cookies into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies.

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

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just ensure they are toasted for the best flavor!

How do I prevent my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies from spreading too much?

To minimize spreading, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape while baking.

What makes these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies special?

The combination of rich butter and toasted pecans creates a delightful flavor profile and texture that is simply irresistible.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has a good binding agent for best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in baking these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies as I do! The rich flavors and soft textures make them truly special, whether for a cozy afternoon treat or sharing with loved ones. Enjoy making this recipe, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and delicious aromas! Happy baking!