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There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting scent of cookies baking in the oven—especially when those cookies are inspired by the beloved flavors of pecan pie! Recently, as I flipped through my recipe book, I stumbled upon the idea of transforming traditional pecan pie into something new and fun: Gooey Pecan Pie Cookies.

Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie, only to discover a luscious, nutty filling waiting inside. These gooey delights capture all the rich flavors of pecan pie, perfectly crafted for easy sharing during the holiday season or just because you need a sweet treat. Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange or simply craving a quick dessert, these cookies are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and bring joy to anyone who takes a bite. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!

Why Bake Pecan Pie Cookies Today?

Indulge in Joy: These Pecan Pie Cookies bring the festive spirit alive in every bite, merging the classic flavors of pecan pie with the fun of a cookie.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they make baking feel effortless, perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Shareable Treat: These cookies are designed to be shared! Their delightful taste and appealing look will impress family and friends at any event, making you the star of the party.
Versatile Variations: Want to switch things up? Feel free to customize with walnuts or a drizzle of chocolate for a unique twist.
Amazing Aroma: The warm and inviting scent of these cookies baking will fill your home, creating cozy vibes that everyone loves.

Try them out during this holiday season, and don’t forget to check out our guide on cookie exchanges for more creative ideas!

Gooey Pecan Pie Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; spoon and level to avoid over-measuring.
• Cornstarch – Adds tenderness; there’s no direct substitution.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Essential leavening agents for a soft texture; don’t skip these!
• Salt – Enhances all flavors, making each bite more delicious.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Dark Brown Sugar – Offers sweetness and deeper flavor; can be swapped with light brown sugar.
• Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness while helping to create a tender cookie.
• Vanilla Extract – Infuses warmth and complex flavor; consider using vanilla bean paste as a substitute.
• Egg & Egg Yolk – Crucial for binding and moisture; both should be at room temperature.

For the Pecan Filling
• Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich sauce for the pecan filling.
• Dark Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness; you can substitute with light brown sugar if preferred.
• Pure Maple Syrup – Natural sweetness that elevates the filling; corn syrup can work in a pinch for a milder taste.
• Pecans – The star ingredient adds crunchy texture; walnuts or almonds can also be used for a different flair.
• Heavy Cream – Introduces creaminess to the filling; half-and-half is a lighter alternative.
• Ground Cinnamon, Cloves, Nutmeg – These spices amplify the pecan flavor, but you can adjust to your liking.
• Flaky Sea Salt – A finishing touch for flavor enhancement; use it sparingly!

Delve into this delightful blend and create enchanting Pecan Pie Cookies that warm the heart!

How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies

Prepare Dough: In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a stand mixer, cream room temperature unsalted butter with dark brown and granulated sugars until smooth. Mix in egg, egg yolk, and vanilla, then gradually add the dry ingredients until well combined.
Chill Dough: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Use a floured tablespoon to create a small indent in the center of each ball. Chill the shaped dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Make Pecan Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, pure maple syrup, and chopped pecans. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in heavy cream and spices, allowing it to bubble for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Bake Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Fill each indent in the dough balls with the pecan filling, taking care not to overfill. Bake for 10-12 minutes, rotating sheets as necessary, until cookie edges are set but centers remain soft.
Finish Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra treat, top with additional pecan filling and a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving.

Optional: Drizzle with chocolate for an indulgent twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Pecan Pie Cookies?

These delightful cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but can also be paired beautifully for a full-fledged treat experience.

Rich Coffee: The deep flavors of a freshly brewed cup of coffee complement the sweetness of the cookies, creating a perfect balance that warms the spirit.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Served alongside, creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool contrast to the warm, gooey filling, making each bite even more indulgent.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm glass of spiced apple cider during the chilly holiday season brings a cozy element, enhancing the nostalgic taste of pecan flavors.
Creamy Hot Chocolate: For a chocolaty twist, pair with a cup of rich hot chocolate, allowing the sweetness of both treats to create a delightful harmony.
Nutty Cheesecake Bites: These creamy bites create a wonderful out-of-the-box pairing, echoing the buttery notes in the cookies while adding different textures.
Chocolate Drizzle: Cut into the cookie and drizzle with warm chocolate sauce for an decadent twist that makes sharing that much sweeter.

Imagine a cozy evening, gathered with loved ones, savoring these cookies alongside your favorite beverage or treat, all while creating memories that will last a lifetime!

Pecan Pie Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Pecan Pie Cookies and make them your own with these fun twists!

Nutty Switch: Substitute pecans with chopped walnuts or almonds for a new take on flavor and texture. The slight differences in crunch and taste can transform each bite into a delightful surprise.
Caramel Drizzle: After baking, drizzle warm cookies with caramel sauce for a rich, sweet finish. The gooey addition brings a luscious layer that harmonizes perfectly with the pecan filling.
Chocolate Love: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a decadent surprise. Chocolate pairs beautifully with the nutty flavors, creating a heavenly blend that will leave taste buds dancing.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the filling for just a hint of heat. This unexpected twist creates an exciting contrast with the sweetness, making your cookies truly extraordinary.
Bourbon Infusion: Mix a splash of bourbon into the pecan filling for an adult twist on your cookies. The warm notes will elevate them to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Coconut Bliss: Add shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical vibe. This addition will not only enhance flavor but also add a chewy texture that complements the luscious gooeyness.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free without sacrificing flavor. Everyone can enjoy this treat regardless of dietary preferences!
Maple Pecan Delight: For an extra maple kick, use maple-flavored syrup instead of corn syrup in the filling. This twist deepens the flavor profile and reinforces the warm, cozy essence of your cookies.

Explore these variations and enjoy the delightful process of baking your own version of Pecan Pie Cookies!

Expert Tips for Pecan Pie Cookies

Chill for Success: Ensure your dough is well-chilled to help maintain shape and prevent spreading during baking. Up to 24 hours in the fridge is fine!
Consistent Filling: Allow your pecan filling to cool to a pourable consistency before using. If it’s too runny, let it thicken slightly before filling.
Avoid Overfilling: When adding the pecan filling, stick to a teaspoon in each indent to prevent overflow while baking, ensuring perfect gooey centers in your Pecan Pie Cookies.
Batch Baking: Bake cookies in batches on separate trays to avoid crowding. This can affect baking time and lead to uneven textures.
Storage Tips: For optimal freshness, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the spices or substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts for added variety in your Pecan Pie Cookies!

Storage Tips for Pecan Pie Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend their freshness, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week, ensuring they stay covered to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the gooey pecan filling again, reheat the frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance: simply mix all the ingredients, scoop into balls, and chill in the refrigerator. The pecan filling can be made ahead as well and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, ensure the filling is completely cooled before refrigerating. When ready to bake, simply fill the chilled dough with the pecan filling and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, gooey cookies with minimal hassle, delighting your family with the irresistible flavors of pecan pie!

Gooey Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pecans for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting pecans, look for those that are fresh and whole, with no dark spots or signs of mold. Pecans should feel firm and slightly oily but not greasy. You can also opt for chopped pecans for easier mixing.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
I recommend keeping your Gooey Pecan Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about 1-2 days. If you’re aiming for longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just ensure they are sealed well to prevent drying out!

Can I freeze Pecan Pie Cookies? If so, how?
Very! To freeze, first place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to firm them up. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will maintain their quality for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their gooey filling.

What should I do if my pecan filling is too runny?
Don’t worry! If your pecan filling is runny, allow it to cool further until it thickens to a pourable consistency—this may take about 10-15 minutes. You want it to be thick enough that it doesn’t overflow when placed in the cookie indent but still gooey when baked.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
It’s important to be cautious. These Gooey Pecan Pie Cookies contain pecans, a tree nut, which can trigger allergies in susceptible individuals. If you’re baking for someone with nut allergies, consider making a version with sunflower seeds or chocolate chips as a substitute for a nut-free alternative.