Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that combines comfort and indulgence, then you’re in the right place! These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are my absolute favorite treat to whip up when I want something special. The rich flavor of toasted pecans mixed with creamy butter and the delightful sweetness of brown sugar creates a warm hug in cookie form. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, bringing smiles and satisfying cravings.

What truly makes this recipe shine is its versatility. You can enjoy these cookies as a morning pick-me-up with your coffee or serve them at holiday parties. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll become a staple in your baking rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready for a sweet treat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery goodness and toasted pecans creates an irresistible taste that’s hard to resist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll 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

The beauty of these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies lies in their flexibility. Feel free to get creative with the flavors and ingredients! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add chocolate chips: Enhance the sweetness by folding in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra treat.
• Try different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
• Incorporate spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Pecans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread your pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5–7 minutes. This step is crucial because toasting brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor. Once they’re golden and fragrant, let them cool before chopping.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together your softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps create soft cookies. It usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer.

Step 3: Mix in Egg and Vanilla

Add one large egg along with 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Beat until well combined; this not only adds moisture but also contributes to that wonderful cookie aroma we all love.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisking helps mix everything evenly while also aerating the flour—this step will ensure that your cookies rise perfectly!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Gently fold in those cooled toasted pecans so every bite is filled with nutty goodness.

Step 6: Scoop onto Baking Sheet

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

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack; this helps maintain their shape while cooling.

Step 8: Make the Glaze

For that scrumptious glaze, melt together 1/4 cup unsalted butter and 1/3 cup brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in two tablespoons of milk or cream until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in 3/4 cup powdered sugar until it reaches a glossy consistency.

Step 9: Drizzle Over Cookies

Once your cookies have cooled completely on the wire rack, drizzle that delicious glaze over each cookie using a spoon or piping bag. Allow it to set before serving or storing—though I doubt they’ll last long once you share them!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies will be even more scrumptious!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your butter and egg are at room temperature helps them incorporate smoothly into the mixture, resulting in a more consistent dough.
• Don’t skip toasting the pecans: Toasting enhances the flavor of the pecans, bringing out their natural oils and creating a deeper, nuttier taste that complements the cookies beautifully.
• Measure flour correctly: Fluff up your flour before scooping it into the measuring cup. This prevents overpacking, which can lead to dry cookies. Use a spoon to transfer it and level off the top for accuracy.
• Chill the dough if necessary: If your dough feels too soft or sticky, chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes can make it easier to scoop and shape while baking.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary; check your cookies a minute or two early. They should be golden at the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies look as good as they taste, making them perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with loved ones at home. Here are some delightful ways to serve them!

Garnishes

• Chopped toasted pecans: Sprinkle a few extra chopped toasted pecans on top of the glaze for added texture and visual appeal.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of ground cinnamon over the frosting gives an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or tea: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that balances warm and cold.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies, adding brightness to your dessert table.
• Milkshake: A creamy milkshake—perhaps chocolate or caramel—makes for a fun pairing that will delight both kids and adults alike.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating memorable moments around your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat anytime you crave something sweet. Whether you want to whip up a batch in advance for gatherings or simply have them on hand for snacks, these cookies store beautifully!

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.
• For best results, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough by scooping it onto a baking sheet and placing it in the freezer until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a zip-top bag and label with the date.
• Frozen dough can be kept for up to three months. Bake directly from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

• To reheat baked cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5 minutes or until heated through.
• Enjoy the freshly baked aroma again!

FAQs

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

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted in Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the added salt in the recipe. You may want to reduce or omit the additional salt to balance the flavors.

How long do Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will remain fresh for about one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage!

What if I don’t have pecans? Can I substitute another nut in Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts, almonds, or even chocolate chips if you prefer. Each will bring its unique flavor while maintaining that beloved cookie texture.

Can I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies dairy-free?

Yes! You can replace the butter with dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil or vegan butter. Ensure your powdered sugar is also dairy-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about these delightful Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies! They embody warmth and comfort with every bite. Baking is not just about food; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with those we love. Enjoy making this recipe and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family. Happy baking!