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Chewy Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe with Brown Butter and Toasted Pecans Made Easy

chewy butter pecan cookies - featured image

These chewy butter pecan cookies feature rich brown butter and toasted pecans for a nutty, caramel-like flavor with a perfect chewy texture. Quick and easy to make, they are a comforting treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, browned
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (220g) light brown sugar, packed lightly
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups (312g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) toasted pecans, roughly chopped

Instructions

  1. Brown the butter: Place 1 cup unsalted butter in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly until it turns deep golden-brown with a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a heatproof bowl and let cool slightly.
  2. Toast the pecans: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 1 1/2 cups roughly chopped pecans and stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly toasted. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Mix sugars and browned butter: In a large bowl, combine granulated sugar and light brown sugar. Pour in the slightly cooled browned butter and mix until smooth.
  4. Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and glossy.
  5. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
  6. Mix dry into wet: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined without overmixing.
  7. Fold in toasted pecans evenly.
  8. Optional: Chill dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to control spreading and enhance flavor.
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop dough by rounded tablespoons onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
  10. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain slightly soft.
  11. Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Watch the butter carefully when browning to avoid burning. Toast pecans separately to maintain crunch. Chilling dough is optional but recommended for better texture. Avoid overmixing dough to keep cookies tender. Check cookies at 12 minutes to ensure chewy centers.

Nutrition

Keywords: butter pecan cookies, chewy cookies, brown butter cookies, toasted pecans, easy cookie recipe, homemade cookies, nutty cookies