Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies Recipe

If you are searching for a cookie that perfectly balances indulgence and a touch of nuttiness, these Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies will steal your heart. Imagine biting into a cookie that’s thick and chewy, with molten pockets of rich chocolate and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans in every mouthful. Whether you want a cozy treat with afternoon tea or a show-stopping dessert for your next gathering, these cookies are a deliciously classic yet slightly elevated twist on the beloved chocolate chip variety.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity yet the harmony of flavors. Each ingredient plays an essential role — from the creamy butter that ensures moisture, to the pecans that add texture and depth, to the vanilla that rounds everything out with a sweet floral note.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creamy and rich, it forms the base for tender, chewy cookies.
• 1 cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor to keep the cookies soft.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Helps balance sweetness and creates a slight crispness on the edges.
• 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together while enriching the dough.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and aroma that perfectly complements the chocolate.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise nicely, creating that perfect chewiness.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances sweetness and balances the flavors.
• 1 cup chopped chocolate or chips: The star ingredient, delivering gooey chocolatey bursts.
• 1 cup chopped toasted pecans: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty richness.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Start by beating the softened butter together with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and creamy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air that helps the cookies have a wonderful texture.

Step 2: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Taking your time here ensures the batter remains smooth, rich, and well combined, setting the stage for the perfect cookie dough consistency.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix will evenly distribute the raising agent and salt throughout your dough, which helps the cookies bake uniformly with a balanced flavor.

Step 4: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, folding gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so mix until no streaks of flour remain but don’t overdo it.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Pecans

Carefully fold in the chopped chocolate chips and toasted pecans. Their addition is what makes these cookies truly stand out — the combination of warm, melted chocolate and crunchy nuts.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Place the cookie dough in the fridge for 30 to 60 minutes. This chilling step helps control spreading during baking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Scoop dollops of chilled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft. Let the cookies rest on the pan for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies

Garnishes

For an extra touch, consider sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt atop freshly baked cookies to accentuate the chocolate’s sweetness and enhance the nutty notes. Or dust lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant look, perfect for sharing.

Side Dishes

Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies go hand in hand with a tall glass of cold milk, a cozy cup of coffee, or even a creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream. These pairings bring out the flavors while adding a refreshing or indulgent element to the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve them stacked tied with a rustic ribbon for gift-giving or place a few warm cookies alongside dipping bowls filled with melted caramel or chocolate sauce for a fun dessert station. You can also sandwich frosting or peanut butter between two cookies for an irresistible treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them chewy and fresh for up to a week. Adding a slice of bread to the container can help maintain moisture, preventing them from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet before transferring them into a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, you can bake fresh cookies on demand without starting from scratch. Baked cookies can also be frozen, ideally wrapped tightly to preserve their texture.

Reheating

Reheat slightly in a warm oven or microwave to revive the melty chocolate and soften the cookie if it’s become firm. Just a few seconds will bring back that freshly baked goodness, making every bite just as delightful as when first made.

FAQs

Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts would work well and offer different textures and flavors while keeping the spirit of the cookies intact.

Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough helps prevent excessive spreading and intensifies the flavors, but if you are pressed for time, you can bake immediately—just keep an eye on the baking time.

How do I make the cookies thicker?

Chilling the dough longer, using slightly less butter, or adding a touch more flour can help create thicker cookies that hold their shape better while remaining chewy inside.

Can I use chocolate chunks instead of chips?

Yes! Chunks will give bigger pockets of melted chocolate, making the cookies feel extra decadent and a bit more rustic.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Not as written, since they use all-purpose flour. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends to suit dietary needs while keeping the delicious flavors intact.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies are an absolute joy to make and share, offering a lovely combination of chewy texture, rich chocolate, and nutty crunch that will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite cookie recipe to enjoy with family and friends time and again.