Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling

If you’re searching for a standout treat that marries delightful crunch with ooey-gooey sweetness, look no further than Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling. These irresistible cookies capture all the best flavors of classic pecan pie in a perfectly handheld, bite-sized form. Each cookie boasts a tender, buttery base topped with a luscious, syrupy filling packed full of toasted pecans that caramelize beautifully during baking. Whether for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies promise a warm, nostalgic experience that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Flavors, New Form: Enjoy the familiar taste of pecan pie reinvented as a delicious cookie.
• Perfect Texture Combo: The crunch of toasted pecans complements the gooey, caramel-like filling for a balanced bite.
• Easy to Share: Small and portable, these cookies are ideal for parties, gifting, or snacking on the go.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe delivers impressive flavor without complexity.
• Customizable: Easily adjust nuts, sweeteners, or add spices to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling recipe plays a crucial role, whether it’s building flavor, texture, or that irresistible gooey center. Though simple, these ingredients combine to create an extraordinary cookie experience.

• Butter: Provides rich flavor and a tender crumb in the cookie base.
• Brown Sugar: Delivers deep caramel notes essential for the filling’s sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the sturdy but soft cookie foundation.
• Egg: Acts as a binder for both dough and filling, adding moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall warmth and complexity of flavors.
• Pecans: The star of the recipe, toasted for maximum crunch and nuttiness.
• Light Corn Syrup: Creates that iconic sticky, gooey texture in the filling.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out all the flavors beautifully.

Variations for Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling

Feel free to add your own spin on Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling. This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to accommodate different tastes or dietary needs without losing the magic of that classic pecan pie flavor.

• Maple Twist: Replace corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a natural, richer sweetness.
• Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make it safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and a flax egg replacement to keep these cookies dairy and egg free.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark or milk chocolate for decadent contrast.
• Spiced Up: Incorporate cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of cayenne for warmth and depth.

How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by creaming softened butter with brown sugar until fluffy and smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, then gradually incorporate flour and a pinch of salt to form a soft dough. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and make it easier to handle.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

While the dough chills, toast chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. This step brings out their nutty flavor and crunch, which are essential for the filling.

Step 3: Make the Gooey Filling

In a saucepan, gently heat brown sugar, light corn syrup, butter, and a pinch of salt until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the beaten egg quickly to temper it, then fold in the toasted pecans. This filling should be sticky and luscious.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

Roll the chilled dough into small balls and press each into the cups of a muffin tin or onto a lined baking sheet to form little wells. Spoon the pecan filling generously into each dough cup, filling it nearly to the top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes until the filling bubbles and sets slightly, and the edges of the cookies turn golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before carefully removing.

Pro Tips for Making Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Ensures easier mixing and a smoother dough consistency.
• Don’t Overbake: Baking just until the filling bubbles keeps it soft and gooey without dryness.
• Chill Dough Thoroughly: Helps prevent cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• Toast Pecans Evenly: Stir frequently during toasting to avoid burning and get consistent flavor.
• Use a Muffin Tin: For perfectly shaped cookies that hold the gooey filling without spilling.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling

Garnishes

Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top right after baking to enhance sweetness and add a lovely finish. For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar or add a few pecan halves for visual appeal and extra texture.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the caramel pecan flavor. A warm cup of coffee, tea, or spiced cider also pairs beautifully, balancing richness and sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling on a decorative platter garnished with fresh cranberries or rosemary sprigs for holidays. Gift them in clear boxes tied with ribbon to share the joy with friends and family. For parties, serve on mini dessert stands or alongside other pie-inspired treats for an irresistible dessert table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover pecan pie cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve freshness and moisture. Storing them properly ensures the filling remains gooey and the cookies don’t dry out.

Freezing

To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months and thaw beautifully when brought back to room temperature.

Reheating

Warm cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes before serving to revive that gooey filling and soften the cookie edges. Avoid microwaving as it can cause uneven heating and a soggy texture.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts besides pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make great substitutes and offer their own unique crunch and flavor to the gooey filling.

Is it possible to make these cookies nut-free?

Yes, you can omit nuts and add extra sweetness or texture with dried fruit, toasted seeds, or chocolate chips for a different but delicious take.

How long do Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling keep fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature.

What if the filling is not gooey enough?

Check your cooking times and temperatures—overbaking can dry out the filling. Ensuring the corn syrup and egg are properly combined helps achieve the right gooey consistency.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, just multiply the ingredients and bake the cookies in batches to maintain consistent quality and texture.

Final Thoughts

Pecan Pie Cookies with Gooey Filling bring together everything you love about classic pecan pie in a charming, bite-sized treat. They’re straightforward to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to become a favorite for holidays and everyday indulgences alike. Give this recipe a try and discover your new go-to dessert that’s as fun to share as it is to enjoy.

Related Posts

• Classic Pecan Pie with Maple and Bourbon
• Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie
• Pecan Pie Trifle

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