Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- **Preparing the Cookie Dough:** Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- **Whipping Up the Pecan Pie Filling:** In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Whisk in the egg, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
- **Assembling and Baking the Cookies:** Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small well in the center of each cookie.
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of pecan pie filling into each well.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown and the filling is set.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For the best flavor, use high-quality ingredients like real butter, pure vanilla extract, and fresh pecans. Toasting the pecans before adding them to the filling enhances their nutty flavor. Be careful not to overbake the cookies; they should be golden brown around the edges and the filling should be set. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. You can also freeze the unbaked cookie dough for later use.
