Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

If you love the comforting warmth of freshly baked cookies loaded with a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness, then you are in for a treat with this Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe. These cookies boast a sensationally rich flavor from nutty browned butter, gooey dark chocolate, and crunchy pecans, harmonizing beautifully in every bite. Their golden, crisp edges combined with soft, melty centers make them utterly irresistible—whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, these cookies will quickly become a beloved classic that everyone asks for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the foundation of any great cookie, and this Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is no exception. Each ingredient plays a special role, from bringing sweetness and texture to adding that deliciously nutty depth and perfect balance of moisture and structure.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup/220g): Browning the butter develops a rich, nutty flavor that’s absolutely essential for that signature taste.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups + 2 tbsp/265g): The base of the dough, providing structure so your cookies hold their shape beautifully.
• Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps your cookies rise just right, giving them a tender texture.
• Salt (1 tsp): Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
• Cinnamon (1/2 tsp): Adds a subtle spicy warmth that complements the pecans and chocolate.
• Dark brown sugar (1 cup/200g, packed): Provides deep caramel notes and a slight chewiness.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup/100g): Adds sweetness and helps achieve that crisp edge.
• Molasses (1 tbsp): Boosts the richness of the brown sugar and adds complexity.
• Large eggs (2): Bind all the ingredients, adding moisture and tenderness.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Intensifies flavor and brings all the elements together.
• Dark chocolate (1 1/2 cups): Choose chips or chopped bars for irresistibly melty pockets of chocolate.
• Pecan halves (1 cup, roughly chopped): Adds delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that defines this recipe.
• Flaky sea salt (for topping): A finishing touch that elevates every bite with bursts of savory contrast.

How to Make Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Begin by melting the unsalted butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Keep stirring until it turns a warm amber color and fills your kitchen with a wonderful nutty aroma. This step transforms ordinary butter into the star of our cookie flavor. Pour the browned butter, including the flavorful bits from the bottom, into a large mixing bowl, then let it cool slightly before moving on.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This mixture spices and structures the dough and ensures even flavor distribution. Setting this aside keeps things organized and makes mixing a breeze.

Step 3: Mix Sugars and Molasses into the Browned Butter

Once the butter has cooled but is still liquid, add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and molasses. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture looks smooth and slushie-like. This luscious blend is where the cookie’s chewy texture and rich sweetness begin to shine through.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Incorporate the eggs one at a time, whisking until fully combined. Stir in the vanilla extract. These ingredients bring moisture and help to emulsify the dough, ensuring your cookies stay tender and moist throughout baking.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the flour mixture into the wet ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Switch to folding with a rubber spatula as the dough thickens to avoid overmixing, which can make cookies tough. This is the moment when the dough starts to come together into a luscious, sticky mass.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Pecans

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chunks or chips and the chopped pecans. The dough should hold its shape but remain sticky. If it’s too soft, pop it in the fridge uncovered for about 30 minutes; this step helps the dough firm up for easier scooping and better cookie shape.

Step 7: Scoop and Chill the Dough

Using a large 2oz scoop or 1/4 cup measuring cup, portion out the dough onto a wax or parchment-lined baking sheet. Top each scoop with extra chocolate chips and pecan pieces for an inviting rustic look. Chill the dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, for the best texture and flavor.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Arrange 5-6 cookie scoops spaced apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake larger cookies for 13-15 minutes, smaller ones for 10-12, watching for golden edges and a slightly puffed, pale center. These signs mean the cookies are ready! While hot, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, then transfer to a cooling rack. If soft, let them rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving to avoid breakage.

How to Serve Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or even a light dusting of cinnamon sugar immediately after baking accentuates the complex flavors of these cookies. Adding a few extra pecan halves or dark chocolate chunks on top before serving makes them even more tempting and visually appealing.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk, a steaming cup of coffee, or a comforting hot chocolate for a heartwarming snack. They also make a wonderful companion to a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a truly indulgent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack them high on a rustic wooden board for a casual dessert spread, sandwich them with cream cheese or salted caramel frosting for a playful twist, or even crumble over a sundae or parfait. This Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe lends itself beautifully to creative plating that will wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and chewy. Layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking and enjoy their fresh-baked taste for up to five days.

Freezing

This dough freezes beautifully! Scoop portions onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time, so you always have freshly baked Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe ready on demand.

Reheating

Warm cookies for just 10-15 seconds in the microwave to revive their melty texture and fresh-baked charm. You can also heat them briefly in a 300°F oven on a baking sheet if you prefer a slight crispness with your gooey centers.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular butter for unsalted butter?

Yes, you can. Just reduce added salt slightly to keep the cookie’s flavor balanced, since salted butter can add extra saltiness.

Why do I need to brown the butter?

Browned butter adds a deep, nutty richness that elevates the flavor beyond a typical chocolate chip cookie, creating the signature taste that makes this Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe so special.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts will provide a different but still delicious nutty crunch if you prefer or have pecans on hand.

How important is chilling the dough?

Chilling is key for controlling spread, developing flavor, and achieving the perfect chewy yet crisp texture in these cookies.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, separated by parchment paper to preserve freshness and prevent sticking.

Final Thoughts

Making this Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is like inviting a warm hug into your kitchen. The wonderful flavors and textures will have everyone asking for seconds, and the simple yet special ingredients make it a truly satisfying baking experience. Don’t wait to try these cookies—they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!

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