These Pecan Pie Bliss Cookies bring all the rich, nutty flavors of classic pecan pie into a chewy, bite-sized cookie. With a buttery, brown sugar base, bits of crunchy pecans, and a sweet caramel drizzle, these cookies are a perfect balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and a hint of cinnamon. They’re ideal for the holiday season or whenever you want a comforting, indulgent treat that’s easy to share!
Introduction
Pecan pie is a classic dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season. But what if you could turn that deliciously sweet and nutty treat into a cookie? Enter Pecan Pie Bliss Cookies – the perfect combination of pecan pie flavors in a soft, chewy, bite-sized cookie. These cookies are made with a buttery base, packed with crunchy pecans, and topped with a rich caramel drizzle. They’re not only a hit at holiday gatherings but also make for a comforting dessert anytime you’re craving something sweet. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just indulging in a solo treat, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
For the Caramel Drizzle
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Cookie Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Stir in the chopped pecans by hand. - Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of cookie dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Gently flatten each dough ball with the back of a spoon or your fingers to create a thick, round cookie shape. - Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still slightly soft.
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. - Make the Caramel Drizzle
While the cookies are cooling, make the caramel drizzle. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir constantly and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and pinch of salt. Let the caramel cool for a minute or two. - Drizzle the Caramel
Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the top of each cookie using a spoon or a fork for a nice swirl.
If desired, you can also sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top for added crunch and flavor. - Serve and Enjoy
Allow the caramel drizzle to set for a few minutes before serving.
These cookies are best enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of milk!
Additional Tips
- Make-Ahead: The cookie dough can be made ahead of time and chilled in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months.
- Pecan Substitution: If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can substitute them with other nuts like walnuts or almonds.
- Caramel Drizzle Variations: For a different flavor, you can make a chocolate drizzle or top the cookies with toffee bits instead of caramel.
FAQs About Pecan Pie Bliss Cookies
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter is preferred for its flavor and texture, margarine can be used in a pinch. Just note that the cookies may not be as rich. - Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies after they have cooled. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving. - How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Be sure to chill the cookie dough before baking. This helps the dough hold its shape while baking and prevents excessive spreading. - Can I make the caramel drizzle ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the caramel drizzle ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Warm it up before drizzling over the cookies. - Can I substitute the brown sugar in the cookie dough?
You can use white sugar in place of the brown sugar, but the cookies will lack the rich, caramel-like flavor brown sugar adds.
Nutritional Information (per cookie)
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 2g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and serving size.
Pecan Pie Bliss Cookies combine the best aspects of classic pecan pie in a convenient, bite-sized form. With a buttery, cinnamon-sweetened dough, crunchy pecans, and a rich caramel drizzle, these cookies are the perfect holiday treat or a comforting dessert for any time of year. The combination of chewy centers, golden-brown edges, and sweet caramel will have everyone reaching for more. Make a batch today, and enjoy the blissful flavors of pecan pie in cookie form!
