Pecan Pie Cookies

Pecan Pie Cookies

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Pecan Pie Cookies combine the delicious flavors of traditional pecan pie into a delightful bite-sized treat. These cookies feature a soft and flaky crust filled with a sweet, nutty filling, delivering all the classic flavors of pecan pie without the fuss of slicing a pie. They are perfect for any time of the year but especially great for holiday gatherings or family get-togethers.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to love Pecan Pie Cookies. Firstly, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and time. If you enjoy the rich, buttery flavor of pecans and the sweetness of brown sugar, you will love these cookies. They are a fun twist on the classic dessert and are perfect for serving at parties or as a sweet afternoon snack. Plus, the addition of optional chocolate chips makes them even more delightful!

How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 prepared single pie crust (homemade or purchased, I used Pillsbury)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup corn syrup
• 2 eggs
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/4 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips for decorating

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Prepare Filling: In a large non-stick pan, combine the melted butter, chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, salt, and eggs. Cook over medium-low heat until the mixture thickens slightly, about the consistency of pudding. It’s important not to overcook this mixture.

3. Cut the Crust: Roll out your prepared pie crust and use a 3-inch cookie cutter to cut out circles.

4. Shape the Cookies: Gently fold the edges of each circle up about 1/8 to 1/4 inch to form a little wall around the filling.

5. Fill the Cookies: Spoon 1 tablespoon of the pecan mixture into each circle.

6. Bake: Place the filled cookies on a parchment-lined baking pan. Bake them for 8 minutes or until the filling is just set.

7. Cool: Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

8. Decorate: If you want to add chocolate, place the chocolate chips in a small Ziploc bag and microwave for about 15 seconds or until mostly melted. Snip off a tiny corner of the bag and drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled cookies. Let them cool completely to set the chocolate.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies

These cookies are best served slightly warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also arrange them on a festive plate for a beautiful presentation during holiday gatherings.

How to Store Pecan Pie Cookies

Store the Pecan Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them; they will stay fresh for about a week in the fridge.

Tips to Make Pecan Pie Cookies

• Ensure your filling is not overcooked; it should only thicken slightly for the best texture.
• Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the cookies.
• If you use store-bought pie crust, make sure it is thawed and ready to roll out.

Variation (If Any)

For a fun twist, you can add mini chocolate chips directly into the pecan filling for additional chocolate flavor or experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of crust? Yes, you can use a graham cracker crust or any other type of prepared crust if you prefer.

2. Can I freeze these cookies? Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked cookies for up to 3 months. Just bake them directly from the freezer, and you may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

3. What can I substitute for corn syrup? You can substitute corn syrup with maple syrup or honey, but this will slightly change the flavor and consistency of the filling.

Pecan Pie Cookies are a simple and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of pecan pie in a fun cookie form. Enjoy making them for your next gathering or just for a sweet treat at home!