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Close-up of gooey pecan caramel cookies stacked on a plate.

Pecan Pie Cookies

Gooey Caramel Delight brings the iconic flavors of a classic pecan pie into bite-sized, chewy cookies that are perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 170 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cookie Base

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Should be at room temperature for easy mixing.
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed Adds richer flavor to the cookies.
  • ½ cup granulated sugar For added sweetness.
  • 2 large eggs Bringing moisture and richness.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract For flavor.
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour Creates a tender base.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda To give lift to the cookies.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon Infuses warmth into the cookies.
  • 1 ½ cups chopped pecans Adds crunch and nuttiness.

Filling and Garnish

  • 1 cup caramel sauce The gooey heart of the cookies.
  • ¼ cup maple syrup Enhances caramel flavors.
  • to taste pecan halves For garnish.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
  • Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing until well combined and creamy.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
  • Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until everything is well combined.
  • Gently fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
  • Using a tablespoon, scoop dollops of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them.

Baking

  • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look soft but set.
  • While the cookies are baking, warm the caramel sauce with the maple syrup in a small saucepan over low heat.
  • Once the cookies are cool enough to handle, drizzle the warm sauce over them and garnish with pecan halves.
  • Let them cool slightly before serving.

Notes

When making these cookies, chilling the dough for an hour before baking helps maintain their shape and enhances flavor. Use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
Keyword Chewy Cookies, Gooey Caramel, holiday dessert, Nostalgic Treat, Pecan Pie Cookies