Brown Butter Pecan Cookies are the kind of treats that can make your taste buds do the cha-cha. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, chewy cookie that boasts nutty brown butter flavor, delightful chunks of pecans, and a sprinkle of sea salt on top – it’s nothing short of heavenly. soft and chewy snickerdoodle cookies This cookie is not just a snack; it’s an experience that triggers fond memories of cozy kitchens and laughter-filled gatherings.
Now, picture this: you’re at home, wrapped in a comfy blanket, with the sweet aroma of cookies wafting through the air. You take one bite, and suddenly all your worries melt away like butter on a hot skillet. Whether it’s for holiday gatherings or just a Tuesday afternoon pick-me-up, these Brown Butter Pecan Cookies make any moment feel special. Trust me when I say you’re going to want to keep this recipe close to your heart (and pantry). For more inspiration, check out this Easter shortbread cookies recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
- The rich flavor profile combines nuttiness with sweetness that’s hard to resist.
- Their golden-brown appearance and crunchy pecans create a visual feast that impresses everyone at the table.
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to be enjoyed with coffee, tea, or even as dessert!
Ingredients for Brown Butter Pecan Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality unsalted butter for browning; it enhances the flavor without adding extra salt.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works here; it gives the cookies their rich flavor and chewiness.
- Granulated Sugar: A mix of sugars creates a lovely balance between sweetness and texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is your base; sift it well to avoid lumps and ensure even mixing.
- Baking Soda: This will help your cookies rise beautifully; don’t skip it!
- Salt: A pinch adds depth to the sweetness; always use fresh salt for the best flavor.
- Eggs: One large egg is key for binding everything together; let it sit at room temperature.
- Pecans: Chop them roughly for added crunch; feel free to toast them for a richer taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Brown Butter Pecan Cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Begin by melting your unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma – just be careful not to burn it unless you enjoy that “charred” taste.
Step 2: Mix Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine your melted brown butter with both brown sugar and granulated sugar. Beat until fully mixed; you want it light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Egg
Crack in one large room-temperature egg and add a splash of vanilla extract because who doesn’t love vanilla? Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined – overmixing can lead to tough cookies!
Step 5: Fold in Pecans
Gently fold in those chopped pecans with a spatula until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them apart. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until they turn golden brown at the edges but remain soft in the center.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle extra sea salt on top for the perfect finishing touch.
Now that you have all these delightful steps laid out before you, get ready to indulge in cookie bliss! Each bite will transport you back to simpler times filled with warmth and laughter—so grab your apron (or whatever you can find) and start baking!
You Must Know
- Brown butter pecan cookies are a delightful mix of nutty flavors and chewy textures.
- This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also gives you the chance to impress friends and family with your baking skills.
- They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the butter until it’s golden and aromatic. Once that magic happens, let it cool slightly. In another bowl, mix the dry ingredients while the butter is cooling. Combine everything together for a smooth batter, then fold in those crunchy pecans.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts if you prefer a different nutty flavor. You could also mix in chocolate chips or dried cranberries for extra sweetness or tartness. Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to spice things up even more.
Storing & Reheating
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds for that fresh-baked feel without losing their chewy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality butter for browning; it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Make sure not to overmix the dough to maintain a tender cookie texture.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to avoid breakage.
Baking these brown butter pecan cookies reminds me of a family gathering where everyone was eagerly waiting for dessert. The aroma filled the house, and as soon as I pulled them out of the oven, I was met with wide eyes and smiles all around!
FAQs:
What are Brown Butter Pecan Cookies?
Brown butter pecan cookies are delicious treats made by browning butter to enhance its nutty flavor. Combining this butter with chopped pecans creates a rich and chewy cookie. The process of browning the butter adds depth to the sweetness, making these cookies a favorite among dessert lovers.
How do I achieve perfectly browned butter for my cookies?
To achieve perfectly browned butter, melt it over medium heat in a saucepan. Stir continuously until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt butter will impart a bitter taste to your brown butter pecan cookies. Once done, remove it from heat immediately and allow it to cool before using.
Can I substitute ingredients in Brown Butter Pecan Cookies?
Yes, you can substitute some ingredients in brown butter pecan cookies. For example, if you’re out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be good alternatives. You can also use dark chocolate chips instead of nuts if you prefer a different flavor profile. chocolate crinkle cookies delicious pumpkin chocolate chip cookies However, be mindful that substitutions may alter the final taste and texture.
How should I store Brown Butter Pecan Cookies?
To store brown butter pecan cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. To freeze, layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying their delightful taste.
Conclusion for Brown Butter Pecan Cookies:
In summary, brown butter pecan cookies combine rich flavors from browned butter and crunchy pecans for an irresistible treat. Mastering the browning technique ensures a depth of flavor that elevates these cookies beyond ordinary recipes. With simple substitutions available and easy storage options, you can enjoy these delightful cookies anytime. Whether sharing with friends or indulging solo, brown butter pecan cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings!
Brown Butter Pecan Cookies
Brown Butter Pecan Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter with the crunch of pecans. Each cookie is soft and chewy, highlighted by a hint of sea salt that balances the sweetness. Ideal for any occasion, these cookies bring warmth and nostalgia to your kitchen. Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Brown the Butter: Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously until golden brown and nutty in aroma. Allow to cool slightly.
- Mix Sugars: In a large bowl, combine brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Add Egg: Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix into wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop rounded tablespoons onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden at the edges but soft in the center.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg




[…] any occasion. Remember to bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes for optimal fluffiness. brown butter pecan cookies Feel free to experiment with different types of cookies while storing your leftovers properly […]