Desserts > American Cookies > Southern Pecan Cookies

Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped pecans

Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

6. Fold in the chopped pecans.

7. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop the dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

9. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.


- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 12-15 minutes per batch
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
- Makes about 36 cookies

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the added salt to 1/2 teaspoon.
- Chopped walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans.

Variations:
- Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolate pecan cookie.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before starting the recipe.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to ensure even-sized cookies.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to prevent them from breaking.

Storage instructions:
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the cookies in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the cookies on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the cookies for an extra crunch.

Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot tea.

Suggested side dishes:
- These cookies are perfect on their own, but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cookies are spreading too much during baking, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before starting the recipe.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to prevent contamination.

Food history:
- Butter pecan is a classic flavor combination in American desserts, dating back to the early 20th century.

Flavor profiles:
- These cookies are sweet and buttery with a nutty crunch from the pecans.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve these cookies as a sweet treat for dessert or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.

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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Buttery, Crunchy