Butter Pecan Cookies Brown (Printable Version)

Nutty brown butter and toasted pecans blend with flaky sea salt in these deliciously balanced treats.

# What You Need:

→ Brown Butter

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter

→ Cookies

02 - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
03 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 1 cup packed light brown sugar
06 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
07 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
08 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
09 - 1 1/2 cups pecan halves, toasted and coarsely chopped

→ Finishing

10 - Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

# Step-by-Step:

01 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, swirling often, until the butter foams, turns golden brown, and develops a nutty aroma, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Pour into a large mixing bowl and cool for 10 minutes.
02 - While the butter cools, preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring halfway through. Cool completely, then chop coarsely.
03 - Add brown sugar and granulated sugar to the cooled brown butter. Beat until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and fine sea salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in toasted pecans.
05 - Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop dough using approximately 2 tablespoons per cookie onto the sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Sprinkle each cookie with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
06 - Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until edges are golden and centers appear just set. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Rich brown butter imparts a deep, nutty flavor that elevates the cookies.
  • Toasted pecans add buttery crunch and warmth.
  • Flaky sea salt provides the perfect contrast to the sweetness.
  • Simple, easy steps make it approachable for bakers of all levels.
  • Pairs wonderfully with coffee or milk for a cozy treat.
02 -
  • Swirl the butter constantly while browning to prevent burning and ensure even color.
  • Toast pecans just before using to maximize crunch and flavor.
  • Room temperature eggs help create a smooth, well-mixed dough.
  • Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and easy cookie removal.
  • Cool cookies briefly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to retain shape and texture.
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