(Rich, Buttery, Nutty & Irresistibly Southern)
Few cookies capture the soul of Southern baking quite like Butter Pecan Cookies. Rich with real butter, packed with toasted pecans, and finished with a tender yet slightly crisp texture, these cookies are the definition of comfort. Inspired by the iconic butter pecan flavor loved in ice cream, cakes, and pies, this cookie version delivers deep caramel notes, nutty warmth, and melt-in-your-mouth softness.
This full SEO-optimized 1500-word recipe article will guide you step by step through making the perfect homemade Butter Pecan Cookies, including expert tips, variations, storage advice, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a cookie swap, or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why Butter Pecan Cookies Are So Popular
Butter pecan is more than a flavor—it’s a Southern classic. The combination of:
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Real butter
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Toasted pecans
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Brown sugar warmth
creates a nostalgic taste that feels homemade, rich, and timeless.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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🍪 Soft centers with lightly crisp edges
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🧈 Real butter flavor (no shortcuts)
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🌰 Loaded with pecans
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🎄 Perfect for holidays & gift boxes
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☕ Amazing with coffee or tea
What Makes Butter Pecan Cookies Special?
Unlike ordinary nut cookies, butter pecan cookies rely on butter-forward flavor rather than excessive sweetness. The pecans are toasted to bring out their oils, while brown sugar adds a subtle caramel note that enhances the butter instead of overpowering it.
The result?
A cookie that’s rich but balanced, sweet but nutty, and endlessly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Dry Ingredients
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2¼ cups all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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¾ cup brown sugar, packed
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2 large eggs, room temperature
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Nutty Star
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1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for best flavor)
Optional Enhancers
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½ teaspoon cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon nutmeg
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Flaky sea salt for topping
Equipment Needed
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Mixing bowls
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Hand or stand mixer
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Baking sheets
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Parchment paper
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Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 6–8 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant. Let cool completely.
🔥 Toasting pecans deepens their flavor and prevents sogginess in the cookies.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
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Flour
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Baking soda
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Salt
Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
This step is crucial—it creates the cookie’s tender texture.
