Pecan Sugar Cookies

Pecan Sugar Cookies are a delicious twist on the classic sugar cookie, featuring rich, buttery flavor and the warm, nutty crunch of chopped pecans. With a soft, chewy center and slightly crisp edges, these cookies are perfect for holidays, cookie exchanges, or everyday indulgence. Simple to prepare and irresistibly tasty, they strike the perfect balance between sweet and nutty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are easy to make and packed with comforting, homemade flavor. The addition of pecans adds a unique texture and taste that elevates the traditional sugar cookie into something extra special. Whether you enjoy them plain, glazed, or rolled in sugar, Pecan Sugar Cookies are incredibly versatile and crowd-pleasing. They’re great for gifting, freezing, or enjoying fresh out of the oven with a glass of milk.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Chopped pecans
• Optional: extra sugar for rolling

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Fold in the chopped pecans evenly.
7. Optional: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them in sugar for a sparkly finish.
8. Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
9. Slightly flatten each cookie with the bottom of a glass or your fingers.
10. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

Makes about 24 cookies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Add Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon adds a warm, spiced twist.
• Drizzle with Glaze: Finish cooled cookies with a simple vanilla or maple glaze.
• Chocolate Chip Addition: Stir in white or dark chocolate chips with the pecans.
• Use Brown Sugar: For a richer, caramel-like flavor, replace half the granulated sugar with brown sugar.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Pecan Shortbread Style: Chill the dough and slice into rounds before baking for crispier cookies.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

To freeze, place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. You can also freeze unbaked dough balls and bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to the baking time.

No reheating is necessary, but you can microwave a cookie for 5–10 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

FAQs

Can I toast the pecans before adding them?

Yes! Toasting pecans enhances their nutty flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Not usually, but chilling for 30 minutes can help prevent spreading and enhance the flavor.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for flavor and texture, but margarine can be used if needed. Avoid low-fat or whipped varieties.

How fine should the pecans be chopped?

Roughly chopped pecans are best for texture, but you can finely chop them if you prefer a more uniform bite.

What’s the best way to roll in sugar?

Place some granulated sugar in a shallow bowl and roll each dough ball gently before baking.

Can I make these cookies in advance?

Yes, both the dough and the baked cookies keep well. Make the dough up to 2 days ahead or freeze for later.

Are these cookies chewy or crispy?

They have soft, chewy centers with lightly crisp edges. Bake longer for a crunchier texture.

Can I make them without nuts?

Yes, simply omit the pecans for a classic sugar cookie. The dough base works well without add-ins.

Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely. Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts can be used in place of pecans.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles easily. Just ensure your mixing bowl is large enough to handle the extra volume.

Conclusion

Pecan Sugar Cookies are a simple yet delightful upgrade to the traditional sugar cookie. The rich, buttery dough paired with crunchy pecans creates a treat that’s both classic and unique. Perfect for any season and incredibly easy to bake, these cookies are bound to become a staple in your baking rotation. Serve them as-is or with a touch of glaze, and enjoy a homemade treat that’s full of flavor and charm.

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