chocolate Chip Butter Pecan Cookies

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There’s something enchanting about cookies that blend the richness of chocolate with the delightful crunch of pecans. These chocolate chip butter pecan cookies are a delightful treat, encapsulating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With their soft and chewy centers and crispy edges, these cookies are not just desserts; they are small bites of joy that will leave you and your loved ones craving more. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as they bake—a sweet, nutty symphony that teases your senses and heralds a cozy baking experience.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These chocolate chip butter pecan cookies are not your ordinary cookies. They boast a unique flavor profile, enhanced by browned butter, which adds an irresistible nuttiness. The toasted pecans provide a satisfying crunch, while the semi-sweet chocolate chips melt beautifully into the dough, creating gooey pockets of chocolate delight. Whether you’re indulging with your favorite coffee or serving them at a gathering, these cookies are sure to impress. They also offer versatility, making them perfect for holiday baking or just a cozy evening treat.

Ingredients

To whip up these amazing chocolate chip butter pecan cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (toasted to enhance flavor)
• 1 cup chopped pecans (preferably toasted for extra crunch)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (melted for optimal texture)
• 2.5 cups bread flour (for a chewy cookie consistency)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (to balance sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda (to help the cookies rise)
• 4.5 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar (packed for a deeper flavor)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 large egg yolk (for extra richness)
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk (can substitute with whole milk)
• 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract (for a warm, inviting flavor)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

How To Make chocolate Chip Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. It’s essential to have everything ready to streamline the baking process. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the chopped pecans. Toast for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Brown the Butter

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow it to continue cooking for a few minutes until it turns a deep golden brown and smells nutty. Be careful not to burn it. Once browned, remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter and brown butter. To this, add the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Beat the mixture until it’s creamy and well combined. Next, add the egg, egg yolk, buttermilk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the bread flour, kosher salt, and baking soda until fully blended. This step ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft and chewy. Fold in the toasted pecans and chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

For the best texture, chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors develop and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look set but slightly underbaked. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips

• For an even richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon to the dough.
• Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for uniform mixing and better texture.
• If possible, allow the cookies to rest after baking; they will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet and firm up as they cool.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate, for a tasty twist!

Variations and Customizations

• Nut-Free Option: Simply omit the pecans and use your favorite nut butter instead.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Substitute the bread flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Loaded Cookies: Add dried cranberries or coconut flakes for an extra flavor burst.
• Fancy Presentation: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a beautiful finish.

How to Store Leftovers

To ensure your cookies stay fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

FAQ

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While you can use margarine, the flavor and texture may vary. Butter adds a rich taste that is hard to replicate, especially in baked goods like cookies.

What’s the best type of pecans to use?

Fresh, raw pecans are best, as toasting them brings out their natural flavors. Make sure to store pecans properly, as stale pecans can affect the overall taste of your cookies.

Can I increase the amount of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of chocolate chips to your taste. If you love chocolate, feel free to add more!

Why do I need both an egg and an egg yolk?

Using both an egg and an egg yolk adds moisture and richness, resulting in a softer and chewier cookie. The combination creates a perfect texture that balances out the crunchy pecans and decadent chocolate chips.

Conclusion

These chocolate chip butter pecan cookies are a delightful addition to your baking repertoire. With their irresistible appeal and perfect balance of flavors, they are sure to become a favorite among family and friends. The process of preparing them not only fills your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas but also brings the joy of baking into your home. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and enjoy creating this scrumptious treat! Happy baking!