Introduction
Delicious cookies are always a treat, and this recipe combines a rich, buttery dough with a sweet and nutty pecan filling. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends. Follow the simple steps provided to indulge in a delightful batch of homemade cookies.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Cookies:
– ¾ cup unsalted butter (170 grams), room temperature (1½ sticks)
– ½ cup brown sugar (107 grams)
– ¼ cup granulated sugar (50 grams)
– 1 large egg (50 grams), room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 grams)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder (4 grams)
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt
For the Filling:
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (85 grams)
– ¾ cup brown sugar (160 grams)
– 1½ cups chopped pecans (171 grams)
– ⅓ cup heavy cream (76 grams)
– ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (2 grams)
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup of room temperature unsalted butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer, cream the mixture together until it is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla
Add in 1 large room temperature egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix lightly after each addition until a dough forms.
Step 6: Shape the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion out balls of dough (approximately 2 tablespoons each) onto a large baking sheet. Roll each portion into a smooth ball.
Step 7: Create Indentations
Utilize the back of a measuring spoon to create an indentation in the center of each dough ball.
Step 8: Prepare the Pecan Filling
In a saucepan set over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir in ¾ cup of brown sugar and 1½ cups of chopped pecans until the sugar is fully incorporated.
Step 9: Combine Filling Ingredients
Add in ⅓ cup of heavy cream, ½ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ⅛ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ⅛ teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix these ingredients until they are well combined.
Step 10: Fill the Cookies
Spoon the prepared pecan filling into the indentations made in each cookie.
Step 11: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9-10 minutes, or until they are set and lightly golden.
Step 12: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Notes
Storage Suggestions
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Butter Temperature
Ensure that the butter is at room temperature to achieve the best creaming results.
Consistency Check
If the dough seems too sticky, you may add a little extra flour, but be cautious not to add too much as it may alter the texture of the cookies.
Pecan Alternates
You can substitute pecans with other nuts or omit them entirely if desired.
Cook techniques
Creaming
Creaming involves beating together butter and sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This technique helps to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture in the finished cookies.
Indentation
Creating an indentation in the dough balls before baking allows for the filling to stay in place while the cookies bake. This step ensures the filling fits perfectly into each cookie once baked.
Melting
Melting butter over medium heat allows for a smooth incorporation with the sugar and nuts, which enhances the texture and flavor of the filling.
Combining
Mixing the ingredients for the filling requires ensuring both the sugars and cream are well incorporated with the spices and pecans, resulting in a rich mixture that complements the cookie.
Baking
Baking the cookies at 350°F ensures even cooking. The time mentioned allows for the cookies to set properly while still retaining a soft and chewy texture.
Cooling
Allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack helps them firm up, making them easier to handle and preventing breakage.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it is recommended to reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
What can I substitute for pecans?
You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even chocolate chips for different flavor profiles.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can use plant-based butter and replace the egg with a flax egg or a commercial egg substitute.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.
What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency.
Conclusion
These cookies are a delightful treat that balances a buttery, soft exterior with a rich, nutty filling. They are perfect for sharing or enjoying with your favorite beverage. The combination of flavors makes these cookies stand out, and they are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Chocolate Chip Addition
Incorporate chocolate chips into the dough for a classic chocolate chip cookie twist.
Oatmeal Raisin Variation
Substitute 1 cup of flour with oats and add raisins for a wholesome variation of these cookies.
Nut-Free Version
Omit the pecans and substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free alternative.
Spiced Pumpkin Filling
Replace the pecan filling with a spiced pumpkin mixture for a seasonal fall treat.
Coconut Bliss
Add shredded coconut to the filling for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
