Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

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When I think of fall baking, Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies instantly come to mind. These cookies are cozy, indulgent, and deeply satisfying—the kind that feel like a warm hug in dessert form. But let me tell you, these aren’t your average cookies. The rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans paired with a soft, buttery cookie base and a luscious maple glaze on top is just pure magic. Every bite is a mix of crunch, creaminess, and that irresistible brown sugar depth that makes them perfect for both holiday trays and everyday sweet cravings.

I created this recipe because I wanted something that felt a little nostalgic but also new. Something that would be perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, but also elegant enough to bring to a gathering. And the result? These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies have quickly become a staple in my kitchen. Whether it’s for a bake sale or just a treat for myself, they never last long on the counter.

Why You’ll Love This Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

These cookies strike the perfect balance between texture and flavor. The toasted pecans bring a lovely crunch and warmth, while the buttery dough melts in your mouth. The glaze on top adds a touch of sweetness and a soft finish that makes every bite feel decadent. They’re easy enough for a weeknight bake but impressive enough to serve during the holidays.

What Kind of Pecans Should I Use?

Freshly toasted pecans make all the difference in this recipe. I always recommend toasting your pecans in the oven or on the stovetop to bring out their oils and deepen the flavor. Halves or pieces both work, though I like to give them a rough chop so they distribute evenly throughout the cookie.

Options for Substitutions

If you don’t have pecans or prefer something different, chopped walnuts are a great alternative with a similar texture. You can also use browned butter in place of regular butter for an even richer flavor. As for the glaze, a simple vanilla icing or even a dusting of powdered sugar can be used if you’re short on time or ingredients. For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based butter and use a dairy-free milk in the glaze.

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Ingredients for This Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe

• Unsalted Butter – This forms the base of the cookie dough and gives the cookies their rich, tender texture. Softened butter creams beautifully with sugar to trap air, creating a light and fluffy cookie.
• Brown Sugar – Brings moisture and a deep caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with pecans.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances the brown sugar for a perfectly sweet cookie with a slight crisp edge.
• Egg – Acts as the binder and adds richness to the dough.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances all the flavors and adds warmth to the cookie.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookie while keeping it soft and chewy.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise just enough to avoid a flat, dense texture.
• Salt – Just a touch to balance the sweetness and enhance all other ingredients.
• Pecans – Toasted and chopped, they add a buttery crunch and nutty flavor throughout the cookies.
• Powdered Sugar – The base for the glaze that coats the cookies in sweet, creamy goodness.
• Maple Syrup – Infuses the glaze with a rich, comforting flavor.
• Milk or Cream – Thins the glaze to the perfect consistency for drizzling or spreading.

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Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for about 6-8 minutes, until fragrant. Let them cool completely before adding them to the dough.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand or stand mixer.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, beating on low speed until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in the Toasted Pecans

Gently fold the cooled, toasted pecans into the dough using a spatula. Try not to overmix at this stage to keep the cookies tender.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Scoop dough balls (about 1.5 tablespoons each) onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and centers are set.

Step 7: Cool the Cookies

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will continue to set as they cool.

Step 8: Make the Maple Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a tablespoon of milk or cream. Add more milk a teaspoon at a time if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Step 9: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cool, spoon or drizzle the glaze over each cookie. Let the glaze set for at least 15 minutes before serving or storing.

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How Long to Prepare Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Making these cookies doesn’t take long, and the results are more than worth it. The prep time is about 20 minutes, which includes toasting the pecans and preparing the cookie dough. While the dough doesn’t require chilling, letting the cookies cool before frosting is essential for the glaze to set properly.

Baking time is around 10-12 minutes per batch, and the cookies cool in about 15 minutes. The glaze takes just a few minutes to mix and another 15 to set. Altogether, you can expect to have these beautiful cookies ready to serve in just under an hour.

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Tips for Perfect Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

• Toast the Pecans: Don’t skip this step—it elevates the flavor.
• Use Room Temperature Butter: This ensures proper creaming with the sugars, giving your cookies the right texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined.
• Cool Before Glazing: Applying glaze to warm cookies will cause it to melt and slide off.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: For evenly sized cookies that bake consistently.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Pecan Toasting: Raw pecans won’t have the same nutty intensity.
• Overbaking: The cookies should look slightly underdone in the center—they’ll finish setting as they cool.
• Adding Too Much Milk to Glaze: It should be thick enough to coat the cookie without dripping off.
• Glazing Before Cooling: The glaze will melt and won’t look neat.
• Crowding the Pan: Cookies need space to spread while baking.

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What to Serve With Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

1. Hot Coffee or Espresso

The rich butteriness pairs beautifully with a bold, bitter coffee.

2. Spiced Chai Latte

The warm spices of chai balance the sweetness and maple glaze.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

Use the cookies as a base or crumbled topping for a simple dessert.

4. Apple Cider

A cozy drink that echoes the fall flavors of the cookies.

5. Whipped Cream and Berries

Lighten up your cookie plate with a small dollop of whipped cream and tart fresh berries.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Layer with parchment paper if stacking to prevent glaze smudging.

Refrigeration: You can keep the cookies in the fridge if you prefer a firmer glaze. Let them come to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Freeze them unfrosted for best results. When ready to serve, thaw and add fresh glaze.

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Estimated Nutrition (per cookie)

• Calories: ~220
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Sugar: 14g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Cholesterol: 25mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers may look slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I use salted butter instead?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.

Is it okay to chill the dough overnight?

Absolutely! Chilling deepens the flavor and slightly changes the texture to be thicker and chewier.

Can I use maple extract instead of maple syrup for the glaze?

Yes, use a small amount (1/4 teaspoon) and adjust the milk quantity to get the right consistency.

How do I make these cookies dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk (like almond or oat) for the glaze.

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Conclusion

Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are the perfect combination of cozy, crunchy, and sweet. They come together quickly and make a beautiful impression whether you’re gifting them or treating yourself. With the warm flavor of pecans, the richness of brown sugar, and that touch of maple glaze, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite. So grab your whisk and enjoy baking these little bites of comfort!

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