Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6: Fold in Pecans
Gently fold in the toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Chill the Dough (Recommended)
Cover the dough and chill for 30–60 minutes. This prevents spreading and enhances flavor.
Step 8: Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto lined baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until:
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Edges are lightly golden
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Centers are soft but set
Step 9: Cool
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Texture & Flavor Breakdown
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Edges: Lightly crisp
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Centers: Soft, tender, buttery
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Flavor: Rich butter, toasted pecans, caramel undertones
These cookies strike the perfect balance between indulgent and comforting.
Pro Tips for Perfect Butter Pecan Cookies
✔ Use real butter (not margarine)
✔ Toast pecans before mixing
✔ Chill dough for thicker cookies
✔ Don’t overbake—soft is better
✔ Sprinkle flaky salt for contrast
Delicious Variations
Chewy Butter Pecan Cookies
Add 1 extra egg yolk and reduce baking time slightly.
Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Add ½ cup white or milk chocolate chips.
Maple Butter Pecan Cookies
Replace 2 tablespoons of sugar with maple syrup.
Gluten-Free Option
Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Serving Ideas
Butter pecan cookies are perfect for:
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Holiday cookie trays
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Afternoon coffee breaks
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Dessert platters
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Gift tins
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Ice cream sandwiches
Try sandwiching vanilla ice cream between two cookies for an unforgettable treat.
Storage & Freezing Instructions
Storage
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Room temperature: up to 4 days (airtight container)
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Refrigerator: up to 7 days
Freezing
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Freeze baked cookies: up to 3 months
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Freeze cookie dough balls: bake straight from frozen (add 1–2 minutes)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Skipping pecan toasting
❌ Overmixing the dough
❌ Using cold butter
❌ Overbaking
❌ Crowding baking sheets
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
Per cookie:
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Calories: 190
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Fat: 12g
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Carbohydrates: 18g
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Sugar: 10g
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Protein: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pecan halves?
Yes, but chopped pecans distribute more evenly.
Can I make them ahead?
Absolutely—dough can be refrigerated up to 48 hours.
Why are my cookies flat?
Butter too warm or dough not chilled.
Final Thoughts
These Butter Pecan Cookies are a true celebration of classic Southern flavor. Buttery, nutty, soft, and rich without being overpowering, they’re the kind of cookie that disappears fast and gets requested often.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday, sharing with friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers pure homemade comfor
