Pecan Pie in a Cookie

Indulge in the irresistible charm of Pecan Pie Cookies, a delightful treat that captures all the rich, nutty flavors of a classic pecan pie in a convenient, bite-sized form. These cookies feature a tender, buttery sugar cookie base, crowned with a luscious, sweet caramel-like pecan filling, and finished with the perfect crunch of toasted pecans in every bite. They are an absolute showstopper for any occasion, from festive holiday gatherings and thoughtful gift-giving to simply enjoying a cozy fall afternoon with a warm cup of coffee or tea.

Forget the fuss of baking an entire pie; these easy Pecan Pie Cookies deliver all the iconic taste and texture with significantly less effort. Each cookie is a miniature marvel, combining a soft, chewy interior with the satisfying crunch of pecans, enveloped in a sweet, sticky filling reminiscent of the best homemade pecan pie. They’re not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of flavor and a testament to the magic of fall baking.

Whether you’re planning your holiday baking list, searching for the ideal treat to share with loved ones, or simply craving a comforting dessert, these Pecan Desserts are sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. Their straightforward preparation makes them accessible for bakers of all skill levels, promising a wonderfully satisfying experience from mixing bowl to first bite.

If you’re a fan of pecan-infused treats, you might also adore our Butter Pecan Cookies, known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich pecan flavor. For those who love a classic with a twist, explore the Butterscotch Pecan Pie Recipe. And if you’re looking for other convenient ways to enjoy pecan pie flavors, our Pecan Pie Bars and Pecan Pie Brownies are absolute must-tries. For a truly traditional experience, don’t miss the classic Paula Deen Pecan Pie Recipe.

Why These Pecan Pie Cookies Are a Must-Bake

These miniature pecan pies in cookie form aren’t just a dessert; they’re an experience. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your baking repertoire:

• All the Iconic Flavors in a Bite-Sized Treat: Experience the true essence of pecan pie – the rich, buttery crust, the gooey caramel-like filling, and the crunchy pecans – all perfectly encapsulated in a single, convenient cookie. It’s the ultimate shortcut to classic dessert satisfaction.
• Chewy, Satisfying Texture: Every cookie promises a delightful contrast. The tender, soft sugar cookie base provides a comforting chew, while the sweet, toasted pecans on top deliver an irresistible crunch. This textural harmony makes each bite truly memorable.
• Ideal for Any Holiday Celebration: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges, adding to a bountiful dessert spread, or packaging as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family.
• Remarkably Easy to Prepare: Don’t let their gourmet appearance intimidate you. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is incredibly approachable for bakers of all skill levels, making it a stress-free addition to your baking schedule.
• Universally Appealing and Crowd-Pleasing: The harmonious blend of buttery, sweet, and nutty flavors ensures these cookies are loved by everyone. They offer a familiar comfort with an elegant presentation, making them an instant favorite at any social event.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Pecan Pie Cookies

Crafting these delectable pecan pie cookies requires a few simple yet essential ingredients. Quality matters here, as each component contributes to the final delicious outcome.

For the Cookie Base:

• Premade Sugar Cookie Dough: This is our secret weapon for speed and simplicity. Using high-quality premade dough ensures consistently soft, buttery cookies every time, drastically cutting down on prep time. It’s perfect for busy bakers who don’t want to compromise on flavor. You can typically find this in the refrigerated section of your grocery store.

For the Decadent Pecan Filling:

• Brown Sugar: The backbone of our caramel-like filling, brown sugar not only provides rich sweetness but also adds depth of flavor with its subtle molasses notes and contributes to the chewy texture. Both light and dark brown sugar work well; light brown sugar offers a milder caramel taste. You can even try our Homemade Brown Sugar Recipe for an extra touch!
• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is crucial for elevating the overall flavor profile. Its warm, aromatic notes complement the pecans and brown sugar beautifully, adding a layer of sophistication to the filling. Opt for pure extract over imitation for the best results.
• Corn Syrup: This ingredient is key to achieving that signature gooey, glossy pecan pie filling texture. It helps prevent crystallization of sugar, resulting in a smooth, viscous topping that perfectly coats the pecans.
• Egg: A single beaten egg acts as a binder for the filling, ensuring it sets properly during baking and achieves that rich, custardy consistency.
• Pecans: The star of the show! Fresh, high-quality pecans, roughly chopped, are essential for that characteristic nutty flavor and satisfying crunch. Chopping them ensures they distribute evenly across the cookies and makes each bite perfectly balanced.

For Serving (Optional but Recommended!):

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, airy whipped cream adds an elegant touch and a creamy contrast to the rich cookies. We highly recommend making your own with our Homemade Whipped Cream Recipe for an unparalleled fresh taste.

You’ll find the complete, detailed ingredient list and measurements in the recipe card section below.

Delicious Variations to Personalize Your Pecan Pie Cookies

While the classic Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect as they are, there are many ways to customize them to your taste or adapt them for different dietary needs or preferences:

• Alternate Crust with Pie Dough: For a more traditional “mini pie” feel, consider using store-bought or homemade pie crust instead of sugar cookie dough in your mini muffin tins. Simply press small circles of pie crust into the tins. Note that this will result in a flakier, less chewy base, creating more of a true mini pecan tart.
• Embrace Homemade Sugar Cookies: If you prefer to bake from scratch, feel free to use your favorite homemade sugar cookie recipe for the base. This allows for greater control over ingredients and can add a personalized touch to your cookies.
• Creative Topping Enhancements: Beyond classic whipped cream, elevate your cookies with a drizzle of rich Homemade Caramel Sauce for extra decadence. For a truly indulgent experience, a small scoop of No-Churn Vanilla Ice Cream on a slightly warm cookie is heavenly. You could also sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg over the filling before serving for added spice.
• Add a Chocolatey Twist: Stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips or finely chopped dark chocolate into the pecan filling mixture before baking for a delightful chocolate-pecan fusion.
• Spiced Pecans: Toast your chopped pecans with a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle warming spice or a surprising kick. You can also experiment with Air Fryer Candied Pecans for an extra special crunch.
• Nut Alternatives: While pecans are traditional, you could try substituting other nuts like walnuts or a mix of nuts for a different flavor profile.

How To Make Pecan Pie Cookies: A Simple Guide

Creating these delightful Pecan Pie Cookies is easier than you think. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve perfect results every time.

• Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan. Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C). It’s crucial for even baking. Next, generously spray two mini muffin tins with a non-stick cooking spray. This step is vital to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of your delicate cookies later.

Step 2: Form the Cookie Base. Take your premade sugar cookie dough and shape it into uniform, approximately 1.5-inch balls. Place one ball into each cup of the prepared muffin tins. Then, using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, gently press down into the center of each dough ball to create a well or indentation. These indentations will hold our delicious pecan filling. Bake these cookie bases for 10 minutes, just until they are lightly set but not fully browned.

Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Filling. While your cookie bases are par-baking, combine all the pecan filling ingredients in a mixing bowl. Whisk together the beaten egg, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans until everything is well combined and has a uniform, sticky consistency. This mixture will soon transform into the rich, gooey topping that defines these cookies.

Step 4: Fill the Cookies. Once the cookie bases have baked for 10 minutes, carefully remove the muffin tins from the oven. If any indentations have puffed up slightly, gently re-shape them with a wooden spoon while the cookies are still warm. Then, spoon approximately one tablespoon of the prepared pecan mixture into the center of each sugar cookie cup, ensuring an even distribution.

Step 5: Final Bake and Cooling. Return the muffin tins to the oven and continue baking for another 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; the cookies are done when the edges of the sugar cookie base are lightly golden brown and the pecan filling appears set and slightly bubbly. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool in the muffin tins for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This crucial step helps the filling set further. For optimal setting and easier handling, transfer the tins to the refrigerator and chill for an additional 15-20 minutes. Finally, run a thin knife around the edge of each cookie to gently loosen and remove them from the tins. Top with whipped cream if desired, and enjoy your delicious Pecan Pie Cookies!

Elevate Your Pecan Pie Cookies with Perfect Toppings

While these Pecan Pie Cookies are incredibly delicious on their own, a thoughtful topping can transform them into an even more decadent dessert experience. Here are some of our favorite ways to garnish and serve them:

• Fresh Whipped Cream: A classic pairing, a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich, sweet filling. It’s simple, elegant, and always a hit.
• Decadent Caramel Sauce: Drizzle your warm or cooled cookies with a rich Homemade Caramel Sauce. The extra layer of sweet, buttery caramel truly enhances the pecan pie flavor profile.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: For an ultimate indulgence, serve these cookies warm with a scoop of creamy No-Churn Vanilla Ice Cream. The melting ice cream and warm cookie create a delightful hot-and-cold sensation.
• A Hint of Cinnamon: A delicate sprinkle of ground cinnamon just before serving adds a warm, aromatic spice that perfectly complements the pecans and brown sugar.
• Extra Candied Pecans: Take the pecan crunch to the next level by garnishing with additional Air Fryer Candied Pecans. Their extra sweetness and crunch make for an impressive presentation.

Expert Baking Tips for Flawless Pecan Pie Cookies

Achieving bakery-quality Pecan Pie Cookies is easy with a few insider tips:

• Chop Pecans Finely: Given the small size of these cookies, finely chopped pecans are key. This ensures that each bite contains a pleasant crunch without being overwhelming, and the nutty flavor is evenly distributed throughout the filling. Overly large pieces can make the cookies difficult to eat and might cause the filling to break apart.
• Cool Completely for Best Structure: Patience is a virtue when it comes to these cookies! It is absolutely essential to let the cookies cool fully in the muffin tins before attempting to remove them. The pecan filling needs time to set properly; trying to remove them too soon will likely result in breakage and a messy outcome.
• Refrigerate Before Serving for Optimal Handling: Chilling the cookies in the refrigerator for a short period (15-20 minutes after initial cooling) significantly helps them firm up. This makes them much easier to handle, transport, and serve, ensuring they maintain their beautiful shape.
• Invest in Quality Ingredients: The flavor of these cookies truly shines when you use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Opt for pure vanilla extract for its superior depth of flavor, and ensure your pecans are fresh and fragrant for the best nutty taste.
• Avoid Overfilling the Muffin Cups: When adding the pecan mixture, be mindful not to overfill the cookie cups. Leave a small amount of space at the top to allow for a slight expansion during baking and to prevent the filling from bubbling over and sticking to the pan.
• Grease the Muffin Tins Thoroughly: Use plenty of non-stick cooking spray to grease your muffin tins, paying extra attention to the edges and corners. This, combined with proper cooling, is your best defense against sticky cookies.

Storage and Preservation Tips for Your Pecan Pie Cookies

Proper storage ensures your delicious Pecan Pie Cookies remain fresh and enjoyable for as long as possible:

Room Temperature: Once completely cooled, store your Pecan Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. While they are safe to eat, the filling might become slightly softer over time.

Refrigerator: For extended freshness and to help the filling maintain its firm texture, store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Chilling them also enhances their structural integrity, making them less prone to crumbling.

Freezer: These cookies freeze beautifully! To freeze, arrange cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Serving Tip: For the most appealing texture and flavor, especially if refrigerated or thawed from frozen, allow the cookies to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This brings them to a perfect temperature where the cookie base is soft and the filling is delightfully gooey.

More Easy and Delicious Cookie Recipes to Explore

If you loved making these Pecan Pie Cookies, you’ll surely enjoy these other simple yet satisfying cookie recipes:

• Butter Pecan Cookies: A classic cookie with a rich, buttery, and nutty flavor that melts in your mouth.
• Easy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe: A timeless comfort food, these chewy cookies are packed with wholesome oats and sweet raisins.
• Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies: The perfect blend of sweet and salty, these cookies are a decadent twist on a beloved favorite.
• Jam Thumbprint Cookies: Delicate and charming, these buttery cookies with a sweet jam center are as pretty as they are delicious.

This Pecan Pie Cookie recipe is truly a keeper—a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for more. We encourage you to try it soon! Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments once you do.

Pecan Pie Cookies

Anyone that loves Pecan Pie, will go crazy over these Pecan Pie Cookies. They are rich and decadent with luscious pecan pie filling on top.

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Chill Time:
15 mins

Total Time:
45 mins

Servings:
24 cookies

Cuisine:
American

Course:
Dessert

Calories:
152 kcal

Author:
Carrie Barnard

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 16.5 ounces Premade Sugar Cookie Dough

For the Pecan Filling:

• 1 Egg beaten
• 1/3 cup Brown Sugar packed
• 1/4 cup Corn Syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1 1/2 cup Pecans chopped

For Serving:

• Whipped Cream optional

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C) and generously spray 2 mini muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Shape the sugar cookie dough into even 1 ½-inch balls. Place one ball in each muffin tin and use your thumb to create an indentation in the center of each.
3. Bake for 10 minutes.
4. While the cookies are baking, combine the beaten egg, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans in a mixing bowl until well mixed.
5. Remove the cookies from the oven. If needed, gently re-shape the indentations with a wooden spoon while the cookies are still warm. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of the pecan mixture into each cookie cup.
6. Bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown and the filling is set.
7. Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature in the muffin tins for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to the refrigerator and chill for 15-20 minutes to allow the filling to fully set.
8. Carefully run a thin knife around the edge of each cookie to gently remove them from the muffin tins. Serve, topped with whipped cream if desired, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Refrigerate any leftover Pecan Pie Cookies in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days for optimal freshness and texture.

Nutrition Facts (per cookie)

Calories: 152kcal,
Carbohydrates: 19g,
Protein: 2g,
Fat: 8g,
Saturated Fat: 1g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 5g,
Trans Fat: 0.001g,
Cholesterol: 9mg,
Sodium: 62mg,
Potassium: 61mg,
Fiber: 1g,
Sugar: 13g,
Vitamin A: 21IU,
Vitamin C: 0.1mg,
Calcium: 10mg,
Iron: 1mg