Butter Pecan Cookies are the perfect treat for anyone who loves the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans paired with the sweetness of toffee bits and cinnamon. With a soft, chewy texture and a warm, comforting taste, these cookies are ideal for cozy afternoons or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Butter Pecan Cookies combine the best of two worlds—crispy edges with a soft center—thanks to the melted butter and perfectly balanced ingredients. The toasted pecans add a delightful crunch, and the option to include toffee bits brings a touch of caramel sweetness that perfectly complements the nutty flavor. The addition of cinnamon adds a lovely warmth, making these cookies irresistible. Whether you're a pecan lover or just craving a classic dessert, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
½ cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
2.5 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
1.5 cups roughly chopped pecans, toasted if preferred
½ cup toffee bits (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, cream together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, cinnamon powder, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder to the mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Fold in the chopped pecans and optional toffee bits until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Once chilled, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls. The chilled dough may feel crumbly, but the warmth of your hands will help it come together.
If desired, roll each ball in granulated sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Arrange the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking tray, spacing them out to allow for spreading.
Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 11-14 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm at the edges.
After baking, let the cookies cool on the tray. If they appear too poofy, gently press the centers with a spoon to flatten them slightly. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies, depending on the size of your dough balls.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30-45 minutes
Bake time: 11-14 minutes
Total time: 1 hour, 15 minutes (including chilling)

Variations

Add chocolate chips: For a chocolatey twist, fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips along with the pecans and toffee bits.
Use walnuts or almonds: If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or chopped almonds can be substituted for the pecans.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of allspice for a spicier flavor profile.
Make them gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: Freeze the dough balls before baking for up to 3 months. Simply scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Reheating: To reheat cookies, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies without toffee bits?

Yes! The toffee bits are optional, but they do add a delicious caramel flavor. Feel free to leave them out if you prefer.

2. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

You can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe. Since salted butter already contains salt, it may make the cookies too salty if you add too much.

3. How do I toast the pecans?

To toast the pecans, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.

5. Can I use other types of nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts can be used in place of pecans, depending on your preference.

6. Why is the dough crumbly after chilling?

The dough can feel a little crumbly after chilling, but the warmth of your hands should help it come together when rolling it into balls. If the dough feels too dry, you can add a tablespoon of milk to help bind it.

7. Can I freeze these cookies after baking?

Yes, you can freeze the cookies after baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

8. Can I skip the chilling time?

While chilling the dough helps with handling and prevents the cookies from spreading too much, you can skip this step if you're in a hurry. Just keep in mind that the cookies may spread more during baking.

9. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies should be golden brown around the edges and slightly soft in the center. If you press gently on the edge, it should feel firm.

10. Can I add more sugar for extra sweetness?

You can certainly add a little more sugar if you like your cookies sweeter, but keep in mind that this may affect the texture of the cookies, making them more crispy rather than chewy.

Conclusion

These Butter Pecan Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances nutty, sweet, and warm flavors. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just for a cozy afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to please. With the option to customize with chocolate chips or toffee bits, you can make these cookies uniquely your own. Enjoy baking these irresistible cookies, and don't forget to share them with friends and family!