Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that warms the heart and fills the home with an irresistible aroma, you’ve come to the right place! Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are more than just cookies; they’re a cozy hug in dessert form. These little gems are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a sweet pick-me-up or for special gatherings with family and friends. The combination of buttery goodness and crunchy pecans topped with a rich glaze makes them a favorite in my kitchen.

What I love most about these cookies is how they bring everyone together. Whether you’re sharing them at a holiday gathering, bringing them to a potluck, or simply enjoying them with your morning coffee, these cookies add a touch of joy to any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies, and these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and freeze it for later baking. Fresh cookies whenever you need them!
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy butter, toasted pecans, and sweet glaze creates a flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack or part of your holiday spread, these cookies fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! These items are easy to find and make all the difference in achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture we love in 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to experiment and make it your own! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Toss in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the pecans.
• Try Different Nuts: If you prefer walnuts or almonds over pecans, go ahead! Each nut brings its unique flavor while keeping that delightful crunch.
• Seasonal Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a warm spiced twist that’s great during the colder months.
• Swap the Toppings: Instead of glaze, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-and-salty treat that’s hard to resist.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While your oven heats up, let’s toast those pecans!

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

Spread your chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5–7 minutes until they’re golden brown. This step enhances their flavor and gives your cookies that lovely crunch.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps achieve a tender texture in your cookies.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add in one large egg along with vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just combined—don’t worry if it looks slightly curdled; it will come together once you add the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients while stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies!

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in those cooled toasted pecans into the cookie dough. This adds delightful bites of crunch throughout each cookie.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

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

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake your cookies for about 10–12 minutes until their edges turn golden but centers remain soft. They will continue cooking slightly after being removed from the oven.

Step 9: Cool Before Glazing

Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time allows them to set properly without falling apart.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

In a saucepan over low heat, melt together butter and brown sugar. Stir in milk until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar until you have a lovely glaze ready for drizzling!

Step 11: Drizzle Over Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cool, drizzle that delicious glaze over each one using either a spoon or piping bag. Allow it to set before serving or storing—if they last that long!

With every bite of these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, you’ll be wrapped up in comfort and joy! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Baking should be a joyful experience, and with these handy tips, your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies will turn out even more delicious!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Having butter and eggs at room temperature helps create a smoother batter, resulting in cookies that are light and fluffy.
• Don’t skip toasting the pecans: Toasting brings out the natural oils and enhances the flavor of the pecans, adding a deeper, nuttier taste to your cookies.
• Measure flour correctly: Use a spoon to fill your measuring cup with flour and level it off without packing it down. This ensures you’re not adding too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies.
• Chill your dough if necessary: If your dough seems too soft or sticky, chilling it for about 30 minutes can help improve the texture by making it easier to scoop and shape.
• Watch the baking time closely: Ovens can vary; keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden on the edges while remaining soft in the center for that perfect chewy bite.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Presenting your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies beautifully can elevate any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, here are some serving ideas to make your treats shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped toasted pecans: Sprinkle some additional chopped toasted pecans on top of your glaze for an extra crunch and visual appeal.
• Drizzle of chocolate: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the glaze adds a rich contrast that complements the buttery flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a light balance to the richness of the cookies, making it an excellent side option for brunch or dessert.
• Coffee or tea: Brew a pot of coffee or steep some herbal tea. The warmth and aromas will enhance the cookie experience and provide a cozy atmosphere.
• Milk: A classic pairing! A cold glass of milk is always welcome alongside these sweet treats, perfect for dipping or just enjoying together.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only make fantastic Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies but also impress everyone who gets to enjoy them! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are perfect for meal prep! Not only do they bake up beautifully, but they also store well, making them an ideal treat to have on hand for unexpected guests or a cozy night in.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.
• For added freshness, you can layer parchment paper between cookies.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies that might help you out!

Can I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies without nuts?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pecans or have nut allergies, you can simply omit them from the recipe. The cookies will still be deliciously buttery and sweet!

How should I store my Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them as described above!

What makes these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies special?

These cookies combine the rich flavors of butter and brown sugar with the delightful crunch of toasted pecans, topped off with a creamy glaze. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying with your favorite cup of coffee.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies as much as I do! With their delectable taste and comforting aroma, they are sure to bring smiles all around. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you deserve a treat, these cookies are bound to be a hit. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!