Here’s a delicious **Butter Pecan Cookies** recipe that’s perfect for a sweet treat with a rich, nutty flavor!
### Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup pecans, chopped (toasted if desired)
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for added sweetness)
### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. **Toast the pecans (optional):**
– If you prefer toasted pecans for a deeper flavor, place the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes, or until they’re golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3. **Cream the butter and sugars:**
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
4. **Add the eggs and vanilla:**
– Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Combine the dry ingredients:**
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. **Mix the dry ingredients with the wet:**
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. **Add the pecans and white chocolate chips (optional):**
– Gently fold in the chopped pecans and white chocolate chips (if using).
8. **Scoop the dough:**
– Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. **Bake:**
– Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.
10. **Cool:**
– Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
### Tips:
– If you like extra crunch, you can add more chopped pecans or even sprinkle some on top of the cookie dough before baking.
– These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
Enjoy your **Butter Pecan Cookies** with their rich, buttery flavor and nutty crunch! Perfect for any occasion!