Pecan Sugar Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pecan Sugar Cookies are the perfect combination of buttery sweetness and nutty richness. These soft and chewy cookies are enhanced with finely chopped pecans, adding a delightful crunch and a toasty depth of flavor. They’re simple to make yet impressive enough for holiday trays, afternoon snacks, or cozy evenings with a warm drink.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose floursugarunsalted buttereggvaniillabaking sodasaltchopped pecans

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Fold in the chopped pecans evenly throughout the dough.

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Lightly flatten each dough ball with the bottom of a glass or your palm.

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10–12 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm spiced flavor.

Drizzle with melted chocolate or a glaze for extra sweetness.

Use brown sugar in place of white sugar for a deeper, caramel-like taste.

Chop the pecans finely for a more subtle texture, or leave them chunky for more crunch.

storage/reheating

Store Pecan Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To freeze, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Let them thaw at room temperature before serving. You can reheat briefly in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to refresh their softness.

FAQs

Can I toast the pecans first?

Yes, toasting the pecans enhances their flavor. Just bake them at 350°F for 5-7 minutes before adding to the dough.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours before baking.

Can I substitute other nuts?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans if desired.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for baking to make these cookies gluten-free.

Should I chill the dough?

Chilling isn’t required, but it can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce the sugar slightly, though it may affect the cookie’s texture.

How do I keep them soft?

Store with a slice of bread in the container to help maintain softness.

Can I make them crispier?

Bake an extra 1–2 minutes for a crisper texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just make sure to mix thoroughly and rotate pans if baking multiple trays.

Are they good for gifting?

Yes, these cookies package well and make a thoughtful homemade gift.

Conclusion

Pecan Sugar Cookies bring a classic flavor combo to your cookie jar—sweet, nutty, and irresistibly buttery. Whether you enjoy them plain, glazed, or with a hint of spice, they’re a comforting treat perfect for any time of year. Give them a try, and they might just become a go-to favorite for your baking days.

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