Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

There is nothing quite like the comforting crunch and buttery richness of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe to make any day feel special. Imagine soft-baked cookie centers studded with toasted pecans that add a delightful nutty texture, all crowned with a luscious brown sugar icing that melts in your mouth. This treat is a timeless classic, perfect for sharing with loved ones during holidays or simply indulging in a cozy moment at home. If you cherish warm, inviting flavors with that perfect balance of sweet and buttery, this recipe will quickly become one of your personal favorites.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the secret to the irresistible taste and texture of these cookies. Each component plays a vital role, from the creamy butter that creates richness, to the toasted pecans that provide a toasted crunch, to the brown sugar that infuses deep caramel notes both in the cookie and the icing.

• 1 cup unsalted butter: Softened for the perfect creamy base to your cookie dough, essential for tender texture.
• 1 cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a rich, caramel flavor that defines the cookie’s taste.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps with proper browning.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and adds a little lift to the cookies.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Amplifies the buttery flavors with a warm aromatic touch.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Builds the structure of the cookie for a perfect chewy bite.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Provides just enough leavening for lightness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and nutty flavors.
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (toasted): Essential for that classic butter pecan crunch with a deep toasted aroma.
• 1/3 cup heavy cream: Gives the brown sugar icing its luscious, creamy finish.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting): Adds a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture to the icing.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (for frosting): Creates a caramel-rich icing that pairs beautifully with the nutty cookies.
• 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting): Thickens and sweetens the brown sugar icing to perfect spreadable consistency.

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Begin by toasting your chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until you can smell that irresistible nutty aroma. Toasting brings out a richer flavor and crunch that transforms these cookies from ordinary to unforgettable. Remember to let them cool before adding to your dough.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy. This step is crucial as it introduces air into the mix, ensuring your cookies are light and tender rather than dense and flat.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the large egg followed by the vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. The egg adds moisture and structure, while vanilla enhances all your flavors with a sweet, floral aroma.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix into your wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough. Overmixing can make cookies tough, so a gentle hand wins here!

Step 5: Fold in the Toasted Pecans

Carefully fold the toasted pecans into the dough. These add delightful texture and that signature butter pecan flavor we all crave.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart because these cookies do spread a bit as they bake.

Step 8: Bake and Cool

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges turn a light golden brown. Once baked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting; frosting warm cookies can cause a melty mess.

Step 9: Make the Brown Sugar Icing

In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This caramel-like base gives your icing incredible depth.

Step 10: Finish the Icing

Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar until the icing is smooth and thick enough to spread. If your icing cools too much and hardens, simply warm it briefly to regain spreadability.

Step 11: Frost the Cookies

Spoon the luscious brown sugar icing onto your cooled cookies. For an extra touch, sprinkle a few toasted pecans on top while the icing is still soft. The added crunch and nutty flavor elevate these cookies to pure bliss.

How to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

Garnishes

Adding toasted pecans on top after frosting creates a beautiful presentation and boosts the nutty flavors. You can also dust a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt to balance the sweetness or sprinkle a little cinnamon for a warm spice note that complements the butter pecan essence.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, creamy hot chocolate, or even chilled milk. For an adult twist, serve alongside a glass of bourbon or sweet dessert wine to highlight the brown sugar and pecan flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe on a rustic platter lined with a linen napkin for a charming homemade vibe. You might also stack a few tied with twine as a thoughtful gift or bundle several in a clear jar layered with wax paper to share holiday cheer with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their perfect softness and avoid sogginess. Place a slice of bread in the container to help keep them moist.

Freezing

Both unfrosted cookie dough and baked cookies freeze beautifully. Wrap dough balls individually and freeze up to 3 months. To freeze baked cookies, layer them between parchment paper in a sealed container, making for a quick treat anytime.

Reheating

If you’d like freshly warm cookies, reheat baked ones for about 10 to 15 seconds in the microwave. For the best experience, let the brown sugar icing come to room temperature or gently warm it so it’s spreadable again.

FAQs

Can I use pecans that are not toasted?

Absolutely! Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds crunch but you can skip this step if short on time. The cookies will still be delicious with raw pecans.

Is this Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe contains no meat products and is perfectly suitable for a vegetarian diet, making it a great option for visitors with dietary preferences.

Can I substitute the butter in the frosting with margarine or oil?

For best taste and texture, use unsalted butter as recommended. Margarine or oil can change the consistency and flavor of the frosting, so it’s not ideal for this recipe.

How do I store frosted cookies if I need to keep them longer?

Keep frosted cookies in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

What if my frosting thickens too much before I spread it?

If the brown sugar icing becomes too thick, warm it gently in a microwave for a few seconds or on the stovetop while stirring to loosen it up. This will make spreading much easier.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a cookie that feels like a warm hug and delivers on buttery pecan flavor with the perfect sweet finish, the Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe is waiting for you to try. It’s straightforward, rewarding, and offers that nostalgic taste that keeps everyone coming back for more. Go ahead and bake a batch—you’ll be so glad you did!

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