Irresistible Brown Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

It’s the kind of day where the smell of freshly baked cookies takes over your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace. Imagine biting into a cookie that’s perfectly crisp on the edges while being soft and chewy in the center—this is not just any cookie; this is the glory of brown butter pecan cookies. The sweet aroma of nutty brown butter mingles with the earthy crunch of toasted pecans, creating a symphony of flavors that makes your taste buds dance.

Now, picture this: you’re cozying up on a chilly afternoon, and as you take that first bite, it’s like nostalgia hitting you right in the face. Maybe it reminds you of baking with Grandma or those epic holiday cookie exchanges. These brown butter pecan cookies are not just treats; they’re an experience, perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or simply when you crave something deliciously indulgent.

Ingredients for brown butter pecan cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality unsalted butter for controlling salt levels while achieving that rich flavor through browning.
• Brown Sugar: Opt for dark brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor; it pairs perfectly with the nuttiness of the pecans.
• Granulated Sugar: A mix of sugars helps create that ideal chewy texture we all love in a cookie.
• Eggs: You’ll need one large egg plus an extra egg yolk to add richness and moisture to your dough.
• All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour will give structure to our cookies without making them too dense.
• Baking Soda: This will help our cookies rise and maintain a soft texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
• Chopped Pecans: Toasted pecans bring a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the brown butter beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make brown butter pecan cookies

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Brown the Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it starts bubbling and turns golden brown. Stir frequently to avoid burning—this is where the magic happens as those milk solids caramelize into nutty perfection.

Step 2: Mix Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine both brown sugar and granulated sugar. Once your browned butter has cooled slightly but is still warm, pour it into the bowl with sugars and whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Crack in one large egg and an additional egg yolk into your buttery sugar mixture. Beat until smooth; this extra yolk ensures our cookies stay soft and chewy.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix into your wet ingredients until fully combined—don’t overmix unless you want tough cookies (and trust me, no one wants that).

Step 5: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in those delightful chopped toasted pecans using a spatula. You want them evenly distributed without overworking your dough.

Step 6: Chill & Bake

Cover your dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (this helps enhance flavors). Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then scoop tablespoons of dough onto lined baking sheets. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

Transfer to plates and enjoy them warm with a glass of milk or your favorite coffee!

These brown butter pecan cookies aren’t just another dessert; they’re about creating memories filled with laughter and joy. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and let these delightful treats elevate any occasion!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the butter until it’s golden and fragrant, then let it cool slightly. While it’s cooling, chop the pecans and prepare your dry ingredients. This sequence ensures efficient baking while maximizing flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or even chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous. A pinch of sea salt on top before baking can enhance those sweet and nutty flavors perfectly.

Storing & Reheating

Store your brown butter pecan cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds before indulging.

I once made these brown butter pecan cookies for a family gathering, and they disappeared faster than I could say “cookie.” My cousin even tried to sneak a second batch home with him!

FAQs :

What are brown butter pecan cookies?

Brown butter pecan cookies are a delicious twist on traditional cookies, combining the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter with crunchy pecans. The process of browning the butter enhances its flavor, creating a warm and toasty taste that pairs perfectly with the sweet cookie dough. These cookies offer a delightful texture, with a crisp edge and a chewy center. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a special event or simply craving a treat at home.

How do I make brown butter for my cookies?

To make brown butter for your brown butter pecan cookies, start by melting unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Keep stirring as it melts and continues to cook. As the butter heats, it will begin to foam and then turn golden brown. You will notice a nutty aroma when it’s ready. Make sure to watch closely, as it can go from perfectly browned to burnt quickly. Once ready, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly before adding to your cookie batter.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute other nuts in your brown butter pecan cookies if you prefer. Walnuts or hazelnuts work well and still provide a lovely crunch and flavor contrast to the sweetness of the cookie dough. If you’re looking for a different taste profile altogether, you might try adding chocolate chips or dried fruit for an interesting twist. Just ensure that the nuts are chopped into small pieces for even distribution throughout your cookie dough.

How should I store my brown butter pecan cookies?

To keep your brown butter pecan cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for about one week. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container separating layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow the cookies to thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven for that freshly baked taste.

Conclusion for brown butter pecan cookies :

In summary, brown butter pecan cookies combine rich flavors and textures that create an unforgettable treat. By browning the butter, you enhance its nutty aroma, which pairs beautifully with crunchy pecans. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored for later indulgence, these cookies are sure to impress any crowd. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find that baking these delicious delights is both rewarding and satisfying. Enjoy every bite of your homemade treats!

Print

Brown Butter Pecan Cookies

• Author: Christina
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in the warm, nutty flavors of brown butter pecan cookies, featuring a perfectly crisp edge and a chewy center that’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup chopped toasted pecans

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Instructions

1. Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it begins to bubble and turns golden brown. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Mix Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine dark brown sugar and granulated sugar. Pour the slightly cooled browned butter into the bowl and whisk until well combined.
3. Add Eggs: Crack in one large egg and an additional egg yolk into the sugar mixture. Beat until smooth for added richness.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until fully combined—avoid overmixing.
5. Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in chopped toasted pecans using a spatula until evenly distributed.
6. Chill & Bake: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoons of dough onto lined baking sheets and bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
7. Enjoy Warm: Transfer cookies to plates and savor them warm with milk or coffee!

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Chilling the dough helps prevent excessive spreading while baking. Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or chocolate chips for variations. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking enhances flavor.