Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Brown Sugar Filling

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic dessert, you’re in the right place. These Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Brown Sugar Filling are the perfect blend of crispy cookie edges and a rich, buttery, caramel-like center that captures the timeless flavors of pecan pie in every bite. Whether for holiday gatherings or a special treat any day, these cookies bring warmth, sweetness, and a touch of southern charm to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of textures: Crispy cookie shells hold a soft, gooey brown sugar center for an unforgettable mouthfeel.
• Rich buttery flavor: Each cookie bursts with the nutty warmth of toasted pecans and smooth brown sugar caramel goodness.
• Simple ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, you don’t need any fancy items to bake these delicious treats.
• Great for gifting: These cookies make an impressive and thoughtful homemade gift any time of year.
• Easy to customize: You can swap nuts or add a hint of spice to match your unique taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that work together to create a perfectly textured cookie with a rich, sweet filling. Each component plays a vital role, from the buttery base to the crunchy pecans.

• All-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy yet tender structure of the cookie dough.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Brown sugar: Gives the filling its signature gooey, caramelized flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps with cookie crispness.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients and enrich the dough’s texture.
• Pecans: Toasted for a nutty depth and crunchy contrast.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweet and nutty flavors with aromatic warmth.
• Baking soda: Helps cookies rise slightly and adds to the chewy texture.
• Salt: Highlights sweetness and balances flavor.

Variations for Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Brown Sugar Filling

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to tweak it to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences. These variations add new dimensions while keeping that cozy essence intact.

• Walnut swap: Replace pecans with toasted walnuts for a different nutty texture and flavor.
• Vegan version: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg to keep these cookies free from animal products.
• Spiced twist: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice to the dough and filling for autumnal warmth.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt dark or milk chocolate over cooled cookies to add an irresistible finishing touch.
• Gluten-free: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies accessible to gluten-sensitive friends.

How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Brown Sugar Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by creaming softened butter with both brown and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Gradually incorporate flour, baking soda, and salt, stirring just until you form a soft dough.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

While the dough rests, gently toast the pecans in a dry pan over medium heat just until fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool, then chop coarsely to sprinkle over the filling.

Step 3: Make the Gooey Brown Sugar Filling

Mix brown sugar with melted butter, a pinch of salt, and a splash of vanilla to create the luscious filling that will be nestled inside each cookie.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

Divide the dough into small balls and flatten each one slightly. Place a spoonful of the gooey brown sugar filling on the dough and sprinkle with toasted pecans. Fold the dough around the filling carefully, forming a sealed ball.

Step 5: Bake

Arrange the cookie balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced well apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-14 minutes until golden around the edges but soft in the center.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling. This step helps the filling set slightly while remaining delectably gooey inside.

Pro Tips for Making Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Brown Sugar Filling

• Butter temperature: Use butter softened to room temperature for a perfectly creamy dough texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep cookies tender, not tough.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough briefly before shaping to make handling easier and prevent spreading.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon and level the flour for accurate measurement to avoid dry or dense cookies.
• Toast nuts carefully: Watch pecans closely as they can burn quickly, ruining the flavor.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Brown Sugar Filling

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted caramel sauce enhances the sweetness and visual appeal. Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a sophisticated balance.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a cup of rich coffee, or a warm chai latte to elevate the comforting flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange cookies on a rustic wooden board surrounded by whole pecans and cinnamon sticks for an inviting display that draws guests in. Use decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for gifting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps retain both the crisp edge and the gooey filling.

Freezing

Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and thaw beautifully.

Reheating

To revive the gooey center, warm cookies gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts besides pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts work wonderfully and offer unique flavors to personalize your cookies.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substituting all-purpose flour with a trusted gluten-free flour blend will yield great results without compromising texture.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?

Make sure to seal the dough well around the filling by pinching edges firmly and chilling the formed cookies before baking.

Can these cookies be made dairy-free?

Definitely! Use vegan butter or coconut oil as a substitute for butter to keep them dairy-free and just as delicious.

What is the best way to store these cookies for maximum freshness?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or freeze them for longer storage to maintain their texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Brown Sugar Filling are a delightful blend of textures and flavors that truly celebrate the charm of homemade baking. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring a quiet moment yourself, these cookies bring warmth and joy with every bite. Give this recipe a try and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved favorite in your cookie jar!

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• Chocolate Pecan Pie with Bourbon
• Southern Peach Cobbler

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