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The Ultimate Soft and Chewy Brown Butter Pecan Cookies

A stack of golden brown butter pecan cookies topped with chopped pecans on a white plate.

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Make rich, tender butter pecan cookies using browned butter for deep flavor. These cookies are soft in the center with slightly crisp edges, perfect for gifting or holiday baking.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling often, until the butter foams, then brown bits form at the bottom and it smells nutty. Immediately pour the brown butter into a heatproof bowl to stop cooking. Let it cool slightly, about 15 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk the cooled brown butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until combined.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Fold in the toasted chopped pecans.
  7. Cover the dough and chill for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent spreading.
  8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  9. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared sheets, placing them about 2 inches apart.
  10. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden brown. The centers should look slightly underdone.
  11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor significantly. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  • For a different texture, consider using this recipe as a base for meal planning by freezing dough balls for later baking sessions.
  • If you want a thicker cookie, chill the dough for 1 hour instead of 30 minutes.

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