If you’ve ever found yourself torn between baking a pie or a batch of cookies, this recipe will be your new favorite solution. These buttery, tender cookies hold a rich, gooey pecan filling that tastes just like a classic pecan pie — only in bite-sized form. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or as a sweet treat alongside coffee, they bring a nostalgic taste with a fun twist. While the dough needs a little time to chill, the rest of the process is simple and absolutely worth it.
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Inspired Cookies
For the Cookie Dough
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1 cup butter (225 g)
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1/2 cup sugar (100 g)
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1/2 cup dark corn syrup (120 ml)
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2 eggs, separated
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2 1/2 cups flour (300 g)
For the Pecan Filling
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1/2 cup powdered sugar (60 g)
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3 Tbsp dark corn syrup (45 ml)
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1/4 cup salted butter (55 g)
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1/2 cup chopped pecans (60 g)
How to Make Pecan Pie Inspired Cookies
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter and sugar. Beat on low speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Add the dark corn syrup and egg yolks. Mix until well incorporated.
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Gradually stir in the flour until a soft dough forms.
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Cover the dough and refrigerate for several hours until firm.
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Prepare the pecan filling: In a saucepan, combine powdered sugar, salted butter, and dark corn syrup. Stir to blend. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a full boil.
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Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans. Allow the filling to chill until slightly firm.
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Using about 1 tablespoon of dough for each cookie, roll into balls. Place on a greased baking sheet, leaving a 2-inch (5 cm) space between cookies.
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Lightly beat the egg whites and gently brush each dough ball with a thin coat.
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Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven.
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Roll about 1/2 teaspoon of the chilled pecan filling into a small ball and press it firmly into the center of each cookie.
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Return cookies to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
A Sweet Treat Worth Sharing
These pecan pie cookies combine the best of two worlds: the classic comfort of a holiday pie and the convenience of a handheld dessert. The buttery base pairs beautifully with the caramel-like pecan filling, creating a bite that’s rich yet perfectly balanced. Whether you make them for a festive gathering or just to treat yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to disappear quickly from the plate.
