Amazing Iced Butter Pecan Cookie: 1 Easy Treat

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Iced Butter Pecan Cookie has been my ultimate comfort treat, especially when I crave something sweet and nutty. I remember my aunt making these for holidays, and the scent of toasted pecans and maple filling her kitchen was pure magic. This recipe captures that cozy feeling with a delightful maple brown sugar cookie base packed with roasted pecans and topped with a simple, sweet maple icing. It’s the perfect balance of chewy, crunchy, and sweet, making every bite unforgettable. Get ready to create your own delicious memories – let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Iced Butter Pecan Cookie

Get ready to fall in love with these amazing cookie bars! They’re packed with flavor and surprisingly simple to make.

The combination of maple, brown sugar, and toasted pecans is pure bliss.
It’s an incredibly easy iced butter pecan cookie recipe that even beginners can master.
You get that satisfying chewy texture from the cookie base and a delightful crunch from the pecans.
These taste just like your favorite bakery treats, but you can make them right at home!
They’re perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.
Making homemade butter pecan cookies with glaze has never been simpler or more rewarding.
The sweet maple icing perfectly complements the rich, nutty cookie.
You’ll adore the aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake!

Ingredients for Iced Butter Pecan Cookie Bars

Gathering the right components is key for these delightful bars. We’re using simple pantry staples to create the perfect blend of flavors and textures. This list covers all the essential ingredients for iced butter pecan cookies, ensuring your baking success. For more baking inspiration, check out our collection of delicious recipes.

Butter Pecans

1 cup (100g) pecan halves – for that essential nutty crunch
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – to help them toast beautifully
⅓ cup (67g) dark brown sugar, packed – adds a caramel-like sweetness
1 tsp ground cinnamon – for warmth
pinch of ground nutmeg – a classic pairing with cinnamon
¼ tsp salt – balances the sweetness

Maple Cookie Dough

½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, room temperature – crucial for a creamy dough
½ cup (100g) dark brown sugar, packed – provides moisture and chewy texture
1 large egg, room temperature – acts as a binder
1 tsp pure vanilla extract – enhances all the flavors
2 tbsp pure maple syrup – the star flavor that makes these special
1 ½ cups (195g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled – the base structure
¾ tsp baking powder – for a slight lift
¼ tsp salt – brightens the overall taste
¼ tsp ground cinnamon – adds cozy spice
¾ cup chopped butter pecans – folded in for pockets of nutty goodness

Maple Icing

1 cup (120g) powdered sugar – for a smooth, sweet glaze
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled – adds richness to the icing
1 tbsp pure maple syrup – to reinforce that delicious maple flavor
1 tbsp milk – to achieve the perfect drizzling consistency
¼ cup chopped butter pecans for topping – for a beautiful finish and extra crunch

How to Make Iced Butter Pecan Cookie Bars

Follow these simple steps to create absolutely delicious iced butter pecan cookie bars. The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like a cozy bakery!

Prepare the Butter Pecans

Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a medium baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the pecan halves, melted butter, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 2: Spread this pecan mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for about 3-5 minutes, until they’re bubbling and just beginning to darken. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly!
Step 3: Once cooled slightly, chop the roasted pecans. Reserve about ¼ cup for decorating the top later, and use the remaining ¾ cup in the cookie dough.

Create the Maple Cookie Dough

Step 4: Now, reduce your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang for easy lifting later.
Step 5: In a large bowl, cream together the room-temperature butter and packed dark brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates the perfect base for our cookie bars.
Step 6: Whisk in the egg, pure vanilla extract, and pure maple syrup until well combined. Then, add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mix everything until a smooth, streak-free dough forms.
Step 7: Gently fold in the ¾ cup of chopped butter pecans into the dough. This is where the magic happens, giving you pockets of nutty goodness in every bite.

Bake and Cool the Cookie Bars

Step 8: Spread the cookie dough evenly into your prepared baking pan. It should be a nice, thick layer.
Step 9: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is puffed. The smell will be incredible!
Step 10: Let the cookie bar cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial before moving on to the icing, ensuring a clean finish when you learn how to ice butter pecan cookies properly.

Make and Apply the Maple Icing

Step 11: Once the cookie bar is completely cool, carefully lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a clean surface or cutting board.
Step 12: To make the maple icing, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted and cooled butter, maple syrup, and milk in a medium bowl until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a tiny splash more milk; if too thin, a bit more powdered sugar.
Step 13: Pour the smooth icing over the cooled cookie bar and spread it evenly to the edges. This is the final step in knowing how to ice butter pecan cookies for a professional look.
Step 14: Immediately sprinkle the reserved ¼ cup of chopped butter pecans over the wet icing. Let the icing set for about 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips for the Best Iced Butter Pecan Cookie

Want to elevate your baking game? These tips will ensure your Iced Butter Pecan Cookie Bars are absolutely perfect every single time. They’re simple tricks that make a huge difference!

Always use fresh pecans for the best flavor and crunch. Toasting them yourself, as instructed, is a game-changer.
Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for the cookie dough. This helps create a smooth, well-emulsified batter, leading to a better texture.
Don’t overmix the cookie dough once the flour is added. Overmixing can develop the gluten too much, resulting in tough bars.
Let the cookie bars cool completely before icing. Warm bars will melt the icing, making a mess.

What’s the secret to perfect butter pecan cookies with icing?

The secret lies in toasting the pecans first with butter, brown sugar, and spices. This intensifies their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch. For a classic iced butter pecan cookie, don’t skip this crucial toasting step! Understanding the science behind baking can help improve results; learn more about ingredient properties.

Can I make iced butter pecan cookie bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie bars a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Ice them just before serving or a few hours ahead if you prefer the icing to set fully. For more information on food storage, consult the FoodSafety.gov guidelines.

How do I avoid common mistakes with iced butter pecan cookies?

A common pitfall is burning the pecans – watch them closely! Another mistake is icing warm bars, which makes the icing melt. Always ensure the cookie bars are completely cool before applying the maple icing.

Best Ways to Serve Iced Butter Pecan Cookie Bars

These delightful iced butter pecan cookie bars are wonderful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a few classic accompaniments. For a truly decadent dessert, try serving a warm bar with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast of warm and cold, chewy and creamy, is simply divine! You could also serve them alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea, making them a perfect afternoon treat. If you’re looking for a beverage pairing, a glass of cold milk is always a winner. For those who enjoy a slightly different visual, consider pairing them with other treats that feature a nice contrast in color, like a simple shortbread or even something with a distinct butter pecan cookies with white icing presentation. You can find more serving suggestions on our contact page.

Nutrition Facts for Iced Butter Pecan Cookie

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of these delicious Iced Butter Pecan Cookie Bars. Remember, these figures are approximate and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Calories: Approximately 300-350 kcal
Fat: Approximately 15-20g
Saturated Fat: Approximately 5-7g
Protein: Approximately 3-4g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40g
Fiber: Approximately 1-2g
Sugar: Approximately 20-25g
Sodium: Approximately 100-150mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more details about our practices, please review our privacy policy.

How to Store and Reheat Iced Butter Pecan Cookie Bars

Properly storing your delicious Iced Butter Pecan Cookie Bars ensures they stay fresh and flavorful for your next craving. Once they’ve completely cooled, which is crucial before any storage or reheating, place them in an airtight container. For short-term keeping, they’ll be delightful in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy these nutty treats for longer, the freezer is your best friend! Wrap the bars well in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they can be frozen for up to 3 months. This is a great tip for meal prep, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand. When you’re ready to enjoy them from the fridge or freezer, allow them to come to room temperature, or gently reheat them. For a warm, gooey experience, microwave a bar for about 10-15 seconds. If reheating from frozen, a slightly longer microwave time or a brief stint in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C for 5-8 minutes) will revive their wonderful texture and flavor. You can learn more about food preservation on our terms of use page.

Frequently Asked Questions About Iced Butter Pecan Cookie

What makes these butter pecan cookies so special?

The special touch comes from roasting the pecans first with a mix of butter, brown sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This step intensifies their flavor and gives them a wonderful crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft, maple-infused cookie bar. It’s what elevates a simple cookie into something truly memorable.

Can I change the type of nuts in this iced butter pecan cookie recipe?

Absolutely! While butter pecans are traditional and delicious, feel free to experiment. Walnuts or even a mix of nuts would work wonderfully. Just make sure to toast them similarly to bring out their best flavor. You can also get creative with butter pecan cookies decoration ideas by using different nuts as a topping.

How do I get a smooth, even icing on my cookie bars?

For a smooth and even maple icing, ensure your cookie bars are completely cool before you start. Whisk the icing ingredients until perfectly smooth, adding milk a teaspoon at a time until you reach a pourable but not too runny consistency. Pour it onto the center of the cookie bar and gently spread outwards with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Working quickly before it sets will give you the best finish.

What are some fun butter pecan cookies decoration ideas?

Beyond the reserved chopped pecans, you can get creative! Consider a drizzle of white chocolate over the maple icing for contrast, or sprinkle on some flaky sea salt for a sweet and salty kick. Edible glitter or even a few small candied pecans can add a festive touch for special occasions.

Variations of Iced Butter Pecan Cookie You Can Try

Looking to switch things up or cater to different tastes? These Iced Butter Pecan Cookie Bars are wonderfully adaptable. You can easily create delicious variations that suit various preferences and dietary needs, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy a taste of this delightful treat. Let’s explore some fun ideas!

Gluten-Free Delight: Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free all-purpose baking blend. You might find that using a blend with xanthan gum helps maintain a great texture, similar to traditional baked goods.
Creamy Dream: For a richer, tangier twist, try making cream cheese iced butter pecan cookies. Incorporate a few ounces of softened cream cheese into the cookie dough along with the butter and sugar, or create a cream cheese-based frosting instead of the maple icing for a decadent dessert.
Softer Texture: If you prefer a chewier, more cake-like cookie bar, reduce the baking time by a few minutes until the edges are just golden. This will result in wonderfully soft iced butter pecan cookies that melt in your mouth.
Flavor Boost: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spices! A pinch of cardamom or ginger can add an interesting depth to the cookie dough. You could also try a lemon zest in the icing for a brighter, more citrusy finish.