Name: Pecan Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489041H17M58S
Total time: PT-489041H17M58S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup chopped pecans; Optional: Extra granulated sugar for rolling

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Pecan Sugar Cookies are a deliciously nutty twist on the classic soft sugar cookie. These cookies are buttery, tender, and full of rich pecan flavor with just the right amount of sweetness. I love how the chopped pecans add a bit of crunch to every bite, making them feel both nostalgic and special at the same time. They’re perfect for holiday trays, afternoon coffee breaks, or whenever I want a simple homemade treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy, requires basic pantry ingredients, and gives me the best of both worlds: the soft texture of sugar cookies and the warm, toasty flavor of pecans. These cookies come together quickly and are perfect for making ahead, freezing, or sharing with friends and family. They have that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes me want to reach for another right away.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, I cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
I beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Gradually, I add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a dough forms.
I fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
I scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and optionally roll them in granulated sugar.
I place them on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
I let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies. It takes around 15 minutes to prep and 10–12 minutes to bake, so I usually have a full batch ready in under 30 minutes.

Variations

Brown Sugar Twist: I substitute half the white sugar with brown sugar for a deeper, caramel flavor.
Glazed Version: I drizzle a simple vanilla or maple glaze over the cooled cookies.
Spiced Up: I add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy, fall-inspired touch.
Toffee Pecan Cookies: I mix in crushed toffee bits along with the pecans for extra crunch.
Gluten-Free Option: I use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make the cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If I want to keep them longer, I freeze the dough balls or baked cookies and thaw as needed. To refresh them slightly, I warm a cookie in the microwave for 5–10 seconds.

FAQs

Can I toast the pecans first?

Yes, I often toast the pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes to bring out their nutty flavor before mixing them into the dough.

Can I freeze the dough?

Definitely. I scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When I’m ready to bake, I add a minute or two to the baking time.

How do I make the cookies extra soft?

I slightly underbake them and let them finish setting as they cool on the pan. This keeps the centers soft and chewy.

Can I use chopped walnuts instead of pecans?

Yes, I’ve swapped in walnuts before and they work beautifully—though pecans give a slightly sweeter, buttery taste.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Not necessarily, but if I have the time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes helps deepen the flavor and prevent spreading.

Conclusion

These Pecan Sugar Cookies are one of my favorite ways to elevate a classic cookie recipe. With their buttery, soft texture and nutty crunch, they’re always a hit wherever I take them—or when I just want to treat myself. Easy to make and even easier to eat, these cookies are a must-bake any time of year.