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Brown Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe


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  • Author: Michelle Davis
  • Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling)
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x

Description

These Brown Butter Pecan Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with rich, nutty flavor. The magic comes from browning the butter, which adds a deep caramel-like aroma, while chopped pecans provide a satisfying crunch. Perfect for cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, or gifting to friends and family, these cookies are simple to make yet impressively flavorful.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 1 ½ cups chopped pecans


Instructions

  • Brown the Butter
    Place the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously as it melts and begins to foam. Continue cooking until the butter turns a golden brown color and emits a nutty aroma. Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning and let it cool slightly.

  • Prepare the Wet Ingredients
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

  • Combine the Dry Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

  • Fold in the Pecans
    Gently fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed. Toasting the pecans beforehand is optional for added flavor.

  • Chill the Dough
    Cover the cookie dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help maintain shape and enhance flavor.

  • Preheat the Oven
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

  • Scoop and Shape the Cookies
    Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion dough onto prepared sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten each mound for even baking.

  • Bake to Perfection
    Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden and centers are just set. Do not overbake.

  • Cool and Serve
    Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm with tea, coffee, or milk.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is recommended for thicker, chewier cookies.

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

  • Pecans can be lightly toasted to enhance their flavor.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes