Butter Pecan Cookies are a perfect treat that combines the rich, buttery flavor with the nutty taste of pecans. The simple ingredients come together to create a chewy, delicious cookie that delights everyone who tries it. The combination of granulated and brown sugar gives a depth of sweetness, while the chilling step before baking enhances the texture.

Why You Should Try This Recipe
These Butter Pecan Cookies are easy to make and require no special skills. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you are baking for a party, holiday, or simply for a snack. With their crispy edges and soft centers, they bring joy in every bite. Plus, who can resist the mouth-watering aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your kitchen?
How to Make Butter Pecan Cookies
Ingredients:
- Unsalted butter, softened (1 cup)
- Granulated sugar (1 cup)
- Light brown sugar, packed (1 cup)
- Eggs (2 large)
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups)
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon)
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
- Chopped pecans (2 cups)
Equipments Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire rack
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Fold in chopped pecans.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days) to chill and firm.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Bake 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and centers are slightly soft.
- Remove from oven and cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Butter Pecan Cookies
These cookies are best enjoyed warm from the oven. Serve them with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or tea for a delightful treat. They also make great gifts when packed in a pretty box or jar.
How to Store Butter Pecan Cookies
Store your Butter Pecan Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Tips & Tricks
- Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, for the best cookie texture.
- Chilling the dough helps the flavors develop and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- If you prefer soft cookies, bake them for the lower end of the time range.
Variations & Substitutions
- You can use different nuts like walnuts or almonds if you don’t have pecans.
- For a chocolate twist, add chocolate chips or chunks to the dough.
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but you can reduce the added salt in the recipe to keep the balance of flavors.
2. How can I tell when my cookies are done?
Look for golden edges and slightly soft centers. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to two days or freeze it for later baking. Just remember to thaw it before baking.
Butter Pecan Cookies
Chewy and delicious Butter Pecan Cookies combine rich buttery flavor with the nutty taste of pecans for a perfect treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Fold in chopped pecans.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days) to chill and firm.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Bake 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and centers are slightly soft.
- Remove from oven and cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Chilling the dough helps the flavors develop and prevents spreading during baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg