Butter Pecan Cookies for Tea Time

“These Butter Pecan Cookies are soft, buttery, and packed with toasted pecans for a rich, nutty flavor. Perfect for tea time, holiday cookie platters, or an everyday snack, these easy-to-make cookies feature a light sugar coating and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Learn how to toast pecans, achieve the perfect cookie texture, and customize with chocolate or spices. The ultimate recipe for buttery pecan cookies that everyone will love!”

These Butter Pecan Cookies are soft, buttery, and full of rich, nutty flavor—perfect for tea time or as an anytime treat. With toasted pecans, a hint of vanilla, and a light sugar coating, these cookies have a delicate crunch and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup pecans
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for coating
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour

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Instructions

1. Toast the Pecans:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 6-8 minutes until fragrant and slightly darkened. Remove from the oven, let them cool, and chop finely.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   In a mixing bowl, whip the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Dry Ingredients:
   Mix in the vanilla extract, sea salt, and flour until a soft dough forms. Gently fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
4. Shape the Cookies:
   Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Roll the balls in sugar to coat. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
5. Flatten the Cookies:
   Use the bottom of a glass or cup to gently press down each dough ball until slightly flattened. If any cracks form around the edges, press them back together with your fingers.
6. Bake the Cookies:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cookies are set. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Tips

• Don’t Skip Toasting the Pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds a deeper, richer taste to the cookies.
• Room Temperature Butter: Make sure the butter is soft but not melted to achieve a light, fluffy dough.
• Uniform Size: Roll the dough into equal-sized balls to ensure even baking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nut Options: Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different flavor.
• Add Chocolate: Mix in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a sweet twist.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.

FAQs

Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! Roll the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

How do I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Can I use salted butter?
If using salted butter, reduce or omit the added sea salt in the recipe.

Serving Suggestions

• With Tea or Coffee: These cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.
• As a Dessert: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert.
• Holiday Treat: Add these cookies to your holiday cookie platter or give them as a homemade gift.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: With minimal ingredients and easy steps, these cookies come together in no time.
• Buttery and Nutty: The rich butter and toasted pecans create an irresistible flavor.
• Perfect Texture: A crisp exterior with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center makes these cookies a crowd-pleaser.

Enjoy these Butter Pecan Cookies with your favorite beverage for a delicious and satisfying treat! 🥮☕