How to Make The Best Pecan Pie Cookies

Name: How to Make The Best Pecan Pie Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted; 1/2 cup pecan halves; 1/4 cup corn syrup; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Learn how to make the best pecan pie cookies that combine the classic flavors of pecan pie in a delightful cookie form.

Created by

Olivia Martin

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:01:06.885Z

Pecan pie cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful bites are a sweet twist on a classic dessert, offering the rich, nutty flavor of pecans with a buttery cookie base.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich, nutty flavor from toasted pecans
Chewy texture with a crispy edge
Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a snack

      

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

Pecan pie has long been a favorite dessert for its rich, sweet, and nutty flavor profile. By transforming this classic dessert into cookie form, you get all the deliciousness of pecan pie in a convenient, bite-sized treat. The combination of toasted pecans and a buttery cookie base creates a rich, indulgent flavor that will delight your taste buds. Each bite offers a wonderful contrast of textures, from the chewy cookie to the crunchy pecans, making these cookies a unique experience.

In these pecan pie cookies, the magic truly lies in the balance of ingredients. The dark sweetness of brown sugar pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of the pecans, while the hint of vanilla adds a fragrant note that rounds out the flavor. The addition of corn syrup in the topping contributes a delightful sweetness that mimics the gooey filling of a traditional pecan pie, making these cookies irresistible.

Ideal for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a sweet snack, these pecan pie cookies are versatile enough for any occasion. Their festive appearance, with the glossy topping and whole pecan halves, makes them a perfect addition to your holiday dessert table. Guests will be impressed by the unique twist on a classic favorite, and they are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

These cookies also make for a wonderful gift. Pack them in a decorative tin or box, and you have a thoughtful homemade present for friends, family, or neighbors. The warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen while baking will surely entice anyone who walks by. Plus, they store well, so you can bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them fresh throughout the season.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To ensure your pecan pie cookies turn out perfectly every time, start with room temperature butter. This allows for better incorporation of the sugars, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cookie. Additionally, toasting the pecans before adding them to the dough enhances their flavor, bringing out their natural oils and creating a deeper, nuttier taste that complements the cookie beautifully.

When it comes to baking, keep an eye on the cookies as they approach the 10-minute mark. Ovens can vary, and you want to pull them out just as the edges begin to turn golden brown. Allowing them to cool slightly on the baking sheet will help them set up nicely, ensuring a chewy center with a crispy edge. Remember, cookies will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven due to residual heat.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Pecan Topping

1/2 cup pecan halves
1/4 cup corn syrup
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before you start baking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until well combined. Fold in the toasted pecans.

Form the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Prepare the Topping

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the corn syrup, brown sugar, butter, and vanilla. Stir until melted and combined. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Add Topping and Bake

Place a pecan half on top of each cookie and drizzle the corn syrup mixture over the cookies. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden.

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your pecan pie cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!

Storing Your Cookies

Once your pecan pie cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the week or sharing with friends. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container, and they can last for up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up. This will bring back their delightful chewy texture and delicious flavor, making it feel like they were just baked!

Variations to Try

While the classic pecan pie cookie is absolutely delightful, feel free to experiment with different flavors and mix-ins to create your own variations. For instance, adding chocolate chips can introduce a rich, sweet element that pairs wonderfully with the nuttiness of the pecans. Alternatively, a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking can enhance the flavor profile, balancing the sweetness with a savory touch.

You could also try incorporating different nuts, like walnuts or hazelnuts, for a unique twist. If you prefer a spicier flavor, adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough can elevate the taste and give your cookies a cozy, warm feel. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can also work well in this recipe.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to three months. Just thaw before baking.

→ What can I serve with these cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.