Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies

Name: Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; – 1 cup brown sugar, packed; – 1/2 cup granulated sugar; – 2 large eggs; – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; – 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; – 1 teaspoon baking soda; – 1/2 teaspoon salt; – 1 cup pecans, chopped; – 1 cup caramel bits; – Sea salt for sprinkling

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Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies are an epic and cozy treat that will make your taste buds dance with joy. These irresistible cookies are a decadent combination of chewy caramel, crunchy pecans, and a touch of sea salt that creates a heavenly balance of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting homemade dessert, this recipe is a surefire way to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring a smile to your face.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies

Baking these Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies is a truly indulgent and heartwarming experience. The rich, gooey caramel center paired with the buttery, toasted pecans and a sprinkle of sea salt creates a flavor explosion that is both comforting and craveable. The homemade touch and the story behind each batch make these cookies truly special, reminding us that the joy of baking is found in the imperfect moments and the memories we create. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or treating yourself to a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to bring a sense of warmth and satisfaction to your day.

Ingredients

To make these delectable Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies, you’ll need a simple list of pantry staples: unsalted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and of course, the star ingredients – chopped pecans and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. The combination of these wholesome and flavorful ingredients creates a cookie that is both decadent and comforting, perfect for satisfying your sweet and salty cravings.

1 cup (2 sticks) – Unsalted butter, softened
1 cup – Light brown sugar
1/2 cup – Granulated sugar
2 – Eggs
2 teaspoons – Vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups – All-purpose flour
1 teaspoon – Baking soda
1/2 teaspoon – Salt
1 1/2 cups – Chopped pecans
Flaky sea salt – For sprinkling

Ingredient Substitutions

Pecans: Walnuts or almonds (provide a similar texture and nutty flavor)
All-purpose flour: Gluten-free flour blend (for a gluten-free version)

How to Make Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside for now.

Step 1: Prep Work

In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients from the previous step and mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are still slightly soft. Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately sprinkle them with a pinch of flaky sea salt. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly

For an extra indulgent touch, you can drizzle the cooled cookies with a homemade salted caramel sauce or dip them in melted dark chocolate. The combination of the chewy caramel, crunchy pecans, and the rich chocolate or caramel creates a truly decadent and satisfying experience.

How to make Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies — key cooking step — Step image showing preparation of Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies

Recipe Variations & Tips

Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for an extra layer of warmth.
Crunchy topping: Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top of the cookies for a delightful crunch.
Festive twist: Fold in some chopped candied ginger or crushed peppermint candy canes for a seasonal flair.
Nut variation: Experiment with different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to find your perfect flavor combination.

Serving & Storage

Serve with: A warm cup of coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk for a truly comforting experience.

Storage: Allow the cookies to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.

Reheat: To restore the freshly baked texture and flavor, you can reheat the frozen cookies in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Make-Ahead: The cookie dough can be made in advance and chilled in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, simply scoop and bake the cookies as directed in the recipe.

Want to see how these cookies look step-by-step? Check out our full photo collection and pin this recipe from DailyCake_ on Pinterest.

Nutrition Information

These Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies are a delightful treat, but it’s important to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Each cookie contains approximately 200 calories, with 12 grams of fat, 24 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of protein. The pecans provide a source of healthy fats and fiber, while the caramel and sea salt add a touch of indulgence. Remember, the joy of baking is in the process and the memories you create, not just the final product. Savor each bite and embrace the imperfections that make these cookies truly homemade and special.

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 200 kcal
Protein: 2 g
Carbs: 24 g
Fat: 12 g
Sodium: 150 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

To prevent excessive spreading, make sure your butter is at the right temperature (not too soft) and avoid overmixing the dough. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can also help the cookies maintain their shape.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cookie dough in advance and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, simply scoop and bake the cookies as directed in the recipe.

How can I ensure the caramel filling doesn’t leak out?

To prevent the caramel from leaking out, be sure not to overfill the cookie dough balls. Aim for about 1-inch sized portions, and make sure the caramel is completely enclosed within the dough before baking.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! These cookies are incredibly versatile, and you can easily substitute the pecans with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of different nuts. Adjust the baking time as needed, as different nuts may require slightly different cooking times.

How do I store the leftover cookies?

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you need to keep them for longer, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. To serve, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their freshly baked texture.