Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe
Introduction
This Butter Pecan Cookies recipe captures the rich, nutty flavor of buttery pecans baked to a perfect crisp. These cookies are easy to make and offer a delightful balance of sweetness and crunch, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 5: Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture, stirring just until incorporated.
- Step 6: Fold in the chopped pecans evenly throughout the dough.
- Step 7: Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Step 8: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown but the centers remain soft.
- Step 9: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- Toast the pecans lightly before adding them to enhance their flavor.
- For extra chewiness, substitute half of the butter with cream cheese.
- Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist.
- Use salted butter and omit the added salt for a slightly different savory edge.
Storage
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze cookies in a sealed bag for up to three months. To reheat, let them come to room temperature or warm briefly in a low-temperature oven.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes and provide a slightly different but equally delicious flavor and texture.
How do I make the cookies chewier?
Use melted butter instead of softened, add an extra egg yolk, or reduce baking time slightly to keep the centers soft and chewy.
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Butter Pecan Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A delicious and hearty Sloppy Joe bread bake featuring Italian bread topped with a savory ground beef mixture, melted mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, and garnished with fresh parsley. Perfect as a comforting lunch or casual dinner dish.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf Italian bread
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
Sloppy Joe Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- ¼ cup yellow onion, chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- ¾ cup (180 g) ketchup
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup water
Topping
- 1 cup (113 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup (113 g) sharp cheddar, shredded
- parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easier clean-up.
- Prepare Bread: Slice the loaf of Italian bread lengthwise into two halves. Arrange both halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix softened butter with garlic salt, then evenly spread this mixture over the cut sides of the bread to add flavor and moisture.
- Cook the Sloppy Joe Filling: Heat a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and chopped onions, cooking until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in garlic powder, yellow mustard, ketchup, kosher salt, black pepper, and water. Mix well to combine all flavors into a thick sauce.
- Assemble the Sloppy Joe Bread: Evenly distribute the sloppy joe mixture over both halves of the bread. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheeses generously on top to create a cheesy crust once baked.
- Bake: Place the assembled sloppy joe bread in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes or until the cheeses are melted and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven, cut into pieces, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm for a flavorful, comforting meal.
Notes
- Use day-old Italian bread for better texture and sturdiness.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the sloppy joe mixture.
- Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; adjust baking time slightly if baking from cold.
- Drain excess grease thoroughly to avoid soggy bread.
- Serve with a side salad or crispy fries for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Sloppy Joe, Italian bread, cheesy sloppy joe bake, comfort food, ground beef recipe, baked sandwich
