Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies

Name: Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies That Everyone Will Love!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pecans

Posted on August 18, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to baking. That’s why I adore these Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies! They’re a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering that rich, nutty flavor we all love, but in a quick and easy cookie form. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat your family, these cookies are the perfect solution. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies

These Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies are a game-changer for busy days. They come together in just 27 minutes, making them a quick treat for unexpected guests or a sweet surprise for your family. The chewy texture and rich flavor will have everyone raving. Plus, they’re versatile enough to enjoy any time of year, whether it’s a cozy fall evening or a festive holiday gathering!

Ingredients for Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter: This is the base of your cookies, providing richness and flavor. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like flavor that complements the pecans beautifully.
Granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps achieve that perfect chewy texture.
Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add moisture, making your cookies soft and tender.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this aromatic ingredient enhances the overall flavor, making each bite irresistible.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookie dough, providing structure and stability.
Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise, giving them that soft, pillowy texture.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Chopped pecans: The star of the show! They add crunch and that signature pecan pie flavor. For an extra kick, consider toasting them before adding.

For those who might have dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative or use gluten-free flour. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. If you skip this step, your cookies might spread too much or not rise properly. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is the secret to cookie perfection!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. This process is essential for achieving that light, fluffy texture. The sugars will aerate the butter, creating tiny air pockets that help your cookies rise beautifully. Don’t rush this step; take your time to mix until it’s creamy and well combined.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. The eggs add moisture and richness, while the vanilla brings a warm, inviting flavor. It’s like a hug for your taste buds!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. The flour provides structure, while the baking soda acts as a leavening agent, giving your cookies that soft and chewy texture. The salt enhances the sweetness, making every bite more flavorful.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough; this can lead to tough cookies. You want to mix until you see no more flour, but it’s okay if the dough is a little lumpy. That’s what makes them soft and easy!

Step 6: Fold in the Pecans

Now it’s time to fold in the chopped pecans. If you want to elevate the flavor, consider toasting them lightly before adding. This brings out their natural oils and enhances their nuttiness. Gently fold them into the dough, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without overmixing.

Step 7: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is key for easy removal and cleanup. The parchment prevents the cookies from sticking and helps them bake evenly. Plus, who doesn’t love a hassle-free cleanup?

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; every oven is different! You want them to look slightly underbaked in the center, as they will continue to cook while cooling.

Step 9: Cooling the Cookies

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling is essential for achieving the right texture. If you move them too soon, they might fall apart. Patience is key here, but I promise it’s worth the wait!

Tips for Success

Always use softened butter for easy creaming and a better texture.
Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s crucial for even baking.
For chewier cookies, avoid overmixing the dough.
Toast pecans for an extra layer of flavor.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing and a smaller one for dry ingredients. You can use any size you have on hand.
Electric mixer: Ideal for creaming butter and sugars, but a whisk works too if you’re feeling strong!
Baking sheet: A standard cookie sheet is perfect, or use any flat baking pan.
Parchment paper: For easy cleanup; aluminum foil can be a substitute.
Wire rack: Great for cooling cookies, but a plate will do in a pinch.

Variations

Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies: Add a cup of chocolate chips for a delightful twist that combines the richness of chocolate with the nutty flavor of pecans.
Maple Pecan Cookies: Substitute half of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor that enhances the pecan taste.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan Version: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a plant-based butter alternative.
Spiced Pecan Cookies: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.

Serving Suggestions for Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
For a festive touch, arrange them on a decorative platter with seasonal fruits.
Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
Enjoy them with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination!

FAQs about Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies

Can I make these Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just scoop the dough onto the baking sheet when you’re ready to bake. This makes it super convenient for busy days!

How should I store the cookies?

Store your Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Of course! While pecans are the star of this recipe, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. Just chop them up and fold them in as you would with pecans.

What can I do if my cookies turn out too dry?

If your cookies are dry, it might be due to overbaking or too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour correctly and keep an eye on the baking time. If they do turn out dry, try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of ice cream to bring back some moisture!

Can I add chocolate chips to the cookie dough?

Definitely! Adding chocolate chips is a delicious way to enhance these Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies. Just fold in a cup of chocolate chips along with the pecans for a delightful twist!

Final Thoughts

Making these Soft and Easy Pecan Pie Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with loved ones. The joy of pulling a warm batch from the oven, the delightful aroma wafting through the house, and the smiles on my family’s faces as they take that first bite—these moments are what I cherish most. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, these cookies bring a touch of warmth and comfort. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do, and that they become a beloved treat in your home!