Butter Pecan Cookies

When the holiday season rolls around, nothing beats the cozy aroma of fresh-baked Christmas cookies filling your kitchen. Among the classics, Butter Pecan Cookies stand out with their rich, nutty flavor, soft and chewy texture, and irresistible buttery goodness. These cookies are perfect for cookie exchanges, gift boxes, or simply enjoying with a warm drink by the fire.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your holiday baking journey, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into this festive favorite!

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar, packed

• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted

• Optional: extra pecan halves for topping

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for a warm holiday twist

• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips for added sweetness

Required Kitchen Tools

• Electric mixer (stand or hand-held)

• Mixing bowls

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Rubber spatula

• Baking sheet

• Parchment paper or silicone mat

• Cooling rack

• Skillet (for toasting pecans)

• Cookie scoop (optional, for uniform cookies)

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions Christmas cookies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently. When they’re fragrant and slightly browned, remove from heat and let them cool. Toasting enhances their nutty flavor, making your cookies even more delicious.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. If using cinnamon, add it here.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in the toasted chopped pecans using a spatula. If desired, stir in white chocolate chips at this stage.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances flavor.

Step 7: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 8: Scoop and Bake

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Optionally, press a pecan half on top of each ball for a festive look.

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are just set. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and chewy.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Helpful Tips for Making and Serving Butter Pecan Christmas cookies

• Use real butter for the best flavor and texture. Margarine won’t deliver the same richness.

• Toast your pecans – it brings out their full nutty depth and makes a noticeable difference.

• Chill the dough – cold dough bakes better and results in thicker, chewier cookies.

• Double the batch – these cookies freeze well and are perfect for holiday gifting.

• Pair with coffee or eggnog – the buttery flavor complements warm beverages beautifully.

Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Cookie – yields ~36 cookies)

• Calories: 160

• Total Fat: 10g

• Saturated Fat: 5g

• Carbohydrates: 16g

• Sugar: 9g

• Protein: 2g

• Sodium: 85mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and portion size.

Conclusion

When it comes to baking Christmas cookies, these Butter Pecan Cookies are a timeless, flavorful choice that brings warmth and joy to every bite. Their buttery base, toasted pecans, and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them irresistible—and they look just as good as they taste!

Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie trays, or a cozy night at home, this recipe is one you’ll come back to year after year. So grab your apron, toast those pecans, and bake up a batch of holiday happiness.

Don’t forget to save and share this recipe—it might just become someone else’s favorite too. Happy baking!