When autumn rolls around and the scent of cinnamon, brown sugar, and toasted nuts fills the air, there’s one dessert that never fails to make an appearance at family gatherings: pecan pie. But what if we told you that all the rich, gooey, buttery goodness of this classic holiday dessert could be transformed into a delightful, bite-sized cookie? Enter the Pecan Pie Cookie — a soft, buttery cookie shell filled with crunchy pecans and sweet caramel, kissed with a touch of cinnamon. These cookies are everything you love about pecan pie, with none of the hassle of rolling out crusts or waiting for a pie to cool. There’s something magical about taking a traditional dessert and giving it a new spin. These pecan pie cookies deliver that nostalgic flavor in a form that’s perfect for sharing — or savoring all by yourself with a warm mug of cider or coffee. They’re ideal for Thanksgiving dessert tables, cookie exchanges, holiday gift tins, or cozy baking days at home. Their texture is the perfect balance of tender and crisp — a buttery cookie base that cradles a rich pecan and caramel center. Each bite gives you a little crunch, a little chew, and a whole lot of joy.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need:
The ingredients are simple, pantry-friendly, and come together quickly:
For the cookie base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
For the filling:
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (for sprinkling after baking)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup and even baking.
2. Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy — about 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract and beat until combined. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
3. Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-tablespoon-sized balls. Place them on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Press the center of each ball gently with your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a well for the filling.
4. Add the Filling
Spoon chopped pecans into the well of each cookie, pressing them lightly into the dough. Then drizzle each with about ½ teaspoon of caramel sauce. Don’t overfill — the caramel will spread as it bakes.
5. Bake
Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are just set. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with a light dusting of ground cinnamon.
6. Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up while keeping the centers gooey.
💡 Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Cookies:
- Toast the pecans for 5–7 minutes at 350°F before chopping for deeper flavor and extra crunch.
- Chill the dough for 20–30 minutes before baking for a firmer, less spread-prone cookie.
- Want to make your own caramel sauce? Heat 1 cup sugar in a dry pan until melted and golden, stir in 6 tablespoons butter, then ½ cup cream, and a pinch of salt. Let it cool before using.
- Make a salted version by adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top after baking.
🍁 Why These Cookies Are a Must-Try
These Pecan Pie Cookies are more than just delicious — they’re nostalgic, comforting, and perfect for the holidays. The combination of buttery cookie dough, sweet caramel, crunchy pecans, and warm cinnamon creates a festive treat that feels both elegant and homey. Plus, they’re easier to store and transport than a full pie, making them ideal for holiday boxes, gifts, or office treats.
📦 Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These cookies keep well for up to 5 days in an airtight container at room temperature. Want to make them ahead of time? Prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months — just thaw and enjoy!
📸 Show Off Your Bakes!
Snap a photo of your Pecan Pie Cookies and share them with the world! Use these hashtags so fellow bakers can find your sweet creations:
#PecanPieCookies #HolidayBaking #ThanksgivingDesserts #FallFlavors #CookieSwap #EasyBakes
So, are you team pie or team cookie? Why not both, with these delightful pecan pie cookies that bring the best of both worlds to your dessert table? 🍪🥧💛