Pecan Sugar Cookies: Prepare to be transported to a realm of buttery, nutty bliss with a recipe that’s as comforting as it is delicious! Imagine sinking your teeth into a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookie, its sweetness perfectly balanced by the rich, earthy flavor of pecans. This isn’t just any cookie; it’s a little piece of Southern charm, baked to golden perfection.

While the exact origins of the pecan sugar cookie are somewhat shrouded in mystery, it’s safe to say that pecans, a staple of Southern cuisine, have played a starring role in countless desserts for generations. These cookies likely evolved from classic sugar cookie recipes, with the addition of pecans adding a delightful textural contrast and a distinctive flavor profile. They are a testament to the ingenuity of home bakers who sought to elevate simple ingredients into something truly special.

What makes pecan sugar cookies so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures the crisp edges giving way to a soft, chewy center. The buttery sweetness is enhanced by the nutty crunch of the pecans, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect treat for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to a simple afternoon indulgence. So, grab your apron, and let’s bake a batch of these delightful cookies together!

Ingredients:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup finely chopped pecans
1/2 cup granulated sugar, for coating

Preparing the Dough:

Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, or the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is evenly mixed. I find that using room temperature butter is key to achieving a smooth and creamy texture. If your butter is too cold, it will be difficult to cream, and if it’s too melted, the cookies might spread too much during baking.
Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cookies, so don’t skip it! I sometimes experiment with different extracts, like almond or maple, for a unique twist.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is important for the cookies to rise properly and have a balanced flavor.
Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in tough cookies. I usually add the dry ingredients in three additions, mixing until just incorporated after each addition.
Stir in the Pecans: Stir in the finely chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The pecans add a wonderful nutty flavor and a delightful crunch to these cookies. Make sure the pecans are finely chopped so they don’t make the cookies too difficult to shape.
Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Chilling the dough helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking and also allows the flavors to meld together. I find that chilling for at least an hour gives the best results. If you’re short on time, you can chill the dough for a shorter period, but the cookies might spread a bit more.

Shaping and Coating the Cookies:

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Parchment paper or silicone mats prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheets and make cleanup a breeze.
Shape the Cookies: Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. I like to use a cookie scoop to ensure that all the cookies are the same size, which helps them bake evenly.
Coat with Sugar: Place the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar in a small bowl. Roll each dough ball in the sugar, coating it completely. The sugar coating adds a delightful sweetness and a slightly crunchy texture to the cookies.
Arrange on Baking Sheets: Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows the cookies to spread slightly during baking without sticking together.
Flatten Slightly (Optional): If you prefer flatter cookies, you can gently flatten the dough balls with the bottom of a glass or measuring cup. I sometimes use a decorative stamp to create a pretty design on the cookies.

Baking the Cookies:

Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the cookies.
Cool on Baking Sheets: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the cookies to firm up slightly and prevents them from breaking when you transfer them.
Enjoy! Once the cookies are completely cooled, they are ready to enjoy! These pecan sugar cookies are delicious on their own, or you can serve them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.

Tips and Variations:

Use High-Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality ingredients, such as real butter and pure vanilla extract, will make a big difference in the flavor of these cookies.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing the dough can develop the gluten in the flour and result in tough cookies. Mix the dough until just combined.
Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking and also allows the flavors to meld together.
Adjust Baking Time: The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the cookies.
Add Spices: For a warm and cozy flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to the dough.
Substitute Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can substitute other nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts.
Add Chocolate Chips: For a chocolatey twist, try adding chocolate chips to the dough.
Make Sandwich Cookies: Spread frosting or jam between two cookies to make sandwich cookies.
Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cookies for longer storage.

Troubleshooting:

Cookies are spreading too much: Make sure you are using the correct amount of flour and that your butter is not too soft. Also, make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Cookies are too dry: Make sure you are not overbaking the cookies. Also, make sure you are using enough butter and eggs in the dough.
Cookies are too tough: Make sure you are not overmixing the dough. Also, make sure you are using the correct type of flour.
Cookies are not browning: Make sure your oven is properly preheated. Also, make sure you are using enough sugar in the dough.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Calories: Approximately 150-200 per cookie
Fat: 8-12 grams
Saturated Fat: 5-7 grams
Cholesterol: 20-30 mg
Sodium: 50-70 mg
Carbohydrates: 18-25 grams
Sugar: 10-15 grams
Protein: 1-2 grams

Why This Recipe Works:

This recipe is a classic for a reason! The combination of butter, sugar, and pecans creates a rich and satisfying flavor that’s hard to resist. The chilling step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too thin, resulting in a perfectly chewy and slightly crisp texture. The sugar coating adds a delightful sweetness and a touch of elegance. Plus, the recipe is easy to customize with different nuts, spices, or chocolate chips to suit your preferences.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Pair them with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
Package them in a decorative tin as a homemade gift.
Bring them to a potluck or holiday gathering.
Enjoy them as a simple and satisfying dessert any time of day.

Equipment You’ll Need:

Large mixing bowl or stand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Spatula
Plastic wrap
Baking sheets
Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
Wire rack

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Pecan Sugar Cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a delightful experience from start to finish. The buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the nutty crunch of pecans and the subtle sweetness of sugar creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who appreciates a classic cookie with a sophisticated twist. Why is it a must-try, you ask? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, and delivers exceptional results every single time. Forget those store-bought cookies that are often dry and bland. These homemade Pecan Sugar Cookies are bursting with flavor and have that undeniable homemade charm that makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a weekend treat, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit. But the best part? They’re incredibly versatile! While I personally adore them just as they are, there are so many ways you can customize them to your liking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Drizzle with Chocolate: For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the cooled cookies. The combination of chocolate and pecans is simply divine! * Add a Citrus Zest: A little lemon or orange zest added to the dough will brighten the flavor and add a refreshing twist. * Spice it Up: A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom will add warmth and complexity to the cookies, making them perfect for the fall and winter months. * Glaze them: A simple powdered sugar glaze, flavored with vanilla or almond extract, will add a touch of elegance and extra sweetness. * Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use these cookies to make ice cream sandwiches with your favorite flavor of ice cream. Vanilla, chocolate, or even pecan praline ice cream would be amazing! * Coffee Companion: These cookies are the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea. The subtle sweetness and nutty flavor complement the bitterness of coffee beautifully. * Gift Giving: Package these cookies in a pretty tin or box to give as a thoughtful homemade gift. They’re sure to be appreciated by anyone who receives them. * Holiday Baking: These cookies are a fantastic addition to any holiday baking spread. Their simple elegance and delicious flavor make them a crowd-pleaser. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of baking these delicious Pecan Sugar Cookies for yourself. I’m confident that you’ll love them as much as I do. So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a batch of these irresistible cookies. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun! Baking should be a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Once you’ve made them, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you try any of the variations I suggested? Did you add your own special touch? Share your photos and stories with me in the comments below! I can’t wait to see your creations and hear what you think. Happy baking! I hope you enjoy this Pecan Sugar Cookies recipe as much as I do.