caramel pecan cookies recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best caramel pecan cookies recipe

I’ve been making caramel pecan cookies for years, and they’re always a hit with my family. I love how the combination of gooey caramel and crunchy pecans creates a perfect flavor and texture contrast. The best part is that they’re incredibly easy to make, even for a beginner baker like me.

I’ve made them for countless family gatherings, parties, and even just as a sweet treat for a weeknight dinner. My kids adore them, and I’m sure your family will love them just as much as mine does. The history of caramel pecan cookies is unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the Southern United States where pecans are abundant.

The combination of flavors is quintessentially American, with the sweetness of the caramel and the earthiness of the pecans creating a taste experience that’s hard to resist. As a home cook, I appreciate how this recipe uses simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, making it a great option for last-minute baking. One of the key techniques to making these cookies is toasting the pecans before chopping them.

This step brings out their rich flavor and aroma, adding depth to the cookies that would be lacking if you simply used plain chopped nuts. It’s also essential to use high-quality chocolate chips or chocolate chunks to ensure the best flavor possible. The recipe itself is straightforward: simply mix together butter, sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, vanilla extract, and toasted pecans before adding in chocolate chips or chunks.

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake until golden brown.

Caramel Pecan Cookies

4.7 from 1916 votes

Caramel Pecan Cookies are a delightful treat with a buttery shortbread base, a layer of rich caramel, and crunchy pecans. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 24Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 250 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt

For the Caramel

1 cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping

1 cup pecan halves
1/4 tsp salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 350F.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
5Gradually add the flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, mixing just until combined.
6The dough should be crumbly and slightly sticky.
7Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking sheet, creating a thin layer.
8Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the caramel.
10In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar and 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
11Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns a golden amber color.
12This should take about 5-7 minutes.
13Be careful not to burn the mixture.
14Once the mixture is golden, carefully whisk in the heavy cream.
15The mixture will bubble up, so be cautious.
16Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the caramel thickens slightly.
17Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
18Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the cooled shortbread base.
19Sprinkle the pecan halves evenly over the caramel layer, pressing them gently into the caramel.
20Sprinkle the pecans with 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
21Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the pecans are lightly toasted.
22Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
23Once completely cooled, break the caramel pecan cookie slab into pieces.
24This can be done by using a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles, or by simply breaking it apart into irregular pieces.
25Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Saucepan
Whisk
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 250 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 250mg🌾Total Carbs: 27g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 20g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

Tips: For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and sprinkle chopped chocolate chips over the caramel instead.

Watch Video Of How Caramel Pecan Cookies Works

Caramel pecan cookies are a versatile and delicious treat that can be enjoyed year-round. They are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday parties. I always keep some on hand for unexpected guests or as a quick dessert option.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply place the cookies in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. These cookies are a family favorite and always a good idea for any occasion.

I love making them for family gatherings and potlucks. They are always the first to go, and I often get requests for the recipe. I have found that serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream enhances the caramel flavor and creates a decadent dessert.

Enjoy this recipe and share it with your loved ones.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Caramel Pecan Cookies

Q: What type of chocolate should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using high-quality chocolate chips or chunks for the best flavor possible. You can use either semi-sweet or milk chocolate depending on your preference.

Q: Can I substitute other types of nuts for pecans?

While you can substitute other types of nuts for pecans, keep in mind that they’ll change the flavor profile of your cookies significantly. Pecans have a unique earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with caramel and chocolate.

Q: How do you toast pecans?

To toast pecans, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned.

Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these cookies ahead of time by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?

You can store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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