Oh, let me tell you—there’s just something magical about baking Pumpkin Cookies with Pecans! The moment you mix that warm, spiced pumpkin puree with the sweet aroma of brown sugar, it feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. I remember one autumn, I gathered with my family in the kitchen, laughter filling the air as we mixed ingredients and shared stories. Those cookies became our go-to treat for gatherings, especially around Halloween, when we’d decorate them with little spooky faces. It was all about the fun, the warmth, and the deliciousness that came from our oven! These cookies are soft and chewy, with a delightful crunch from the pecans, making them the perfect addition to any cozy gathering or festive celebration. Trust me, once you bake these, you’ll want to share them with everyone you know. So grab your apron, and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen together!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
How to Prepare Pumpkin Cookies with Pecans
Making these delightful Pumpkin Cookies with Pecans is a breeze! Let’s walk through it step-by-step, so you can create these delicious treats with ease. First, you’ll want to get everything ready before you start baking. It makes the process so much smoother! Trust me, I always find it helpful to have all my ingredients measured out beforehand, so let’s dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step, as you want your cookies to bake evenly and come out just right.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and softened butter. Use a sturdy spoon or a hand mixer to blend these together until they’re creamy and well combined. It should smell heavenly already!
- Add in the egg and mix again until everything is combined. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth cookie batter.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This step ensures your spices and rising agent are evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently. Don’t rush this part; mixing just until combined will keep your cookies nice and tender. Oops, I’ve made the mistake of overmixing before, and it didn’t turn out well!
- Now, fold in the chopped pecans. This is where that lovely crunch comes from! Make sure they’re evenly mixed in without overdoing it.
- Using a spoon, drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each dollop, as they’ll spread a little while baking.
- Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re lightly golden around the edges. It’s hard to resist the smell wafting through your kitchen at this point!
- Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up a bit for easy handling.
And there you have it! These cookies will not only fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma but will also fill your hearts with joy as you share them with loved ones. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Pumpkin Cookies with Pecans turn out perfectly every time, I’ve got some handy tips for you! First off, don’t skip the preheating—it’s crucial for even baking. If you have an oven thermometer, it’s a great idea to check that your oven is at the right temperature, as some ovens can be a bit off.
Now, about those ingredients! If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option, or use applesauce to reduce fat without sacrificing moisture. For a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend; just make sure it’s one that includes xanthan gum for best results.
As for baking time, keep an eye on your cookies! They’re done when they’re lightly golden around the edges, but still soft in the middle. If you’re unsure, you can gently touch the top—if it springs back, they’re ready! And remember, they’ll continue to firm up as they cool. So, resist the urge to overbake; nobody likes a dry cookie!
Feeling adventurous? Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spices or add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Pumpkin Cookies with Pecans, it’s nice to have a general idea of what you’re biting into! Here are the estimated nutritional values for one cookie:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. If you make any substitutions, like using coconut oil instead of butter or gluten-free flour, those adjustments will also affect the nutritional content. It’s all about enjoying these delightful cookies in moderation and savoring every bite!
Variations
If you want to switch things up a bit with your Pumpkin Cookies with Pecans, I’ve got some delightful ideas for you! First off, feel free to experiment with different nuts. Walnuts or hazelnuts can add a lovely twist, and I’ve even tried sunflower seeds for a nut-free option—delicious!
Spice lovers, rejoice! You can enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the mix. A dash of vanilla extract can also elevate the sweetness and aroma. And if you’re in the mood for a chocolatey treat, why not fold in some chocolate chips along with the pecans? The combination of pumpkin and chocolate is simply heavenly!
Get creative with your add-ins, but remember to keep the essence of those cozy pumpkin flavors. Happy baking, and enjoy discovering your favorite twist on these cookies!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve baked your delightful Pumpkin Cookies with Pecans, you might find yourself with a few leftovers (if you’re lucky!). To keep these cookies fresh and tasty, it’s best to store them in an airtight container. I like to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking, which helps keep their lovely, soft texture intact. You can store them at room temperature for about 3-4 days—just make sure they’re in a cool spot away from direct sunlight!
If you want to keep your cookies for a longer time, you can freeze them! Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll be good for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply take out as many cookies as you’d like and let them thaw at room temperature for a little while. You can even pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm them up. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like a warm pumpkin cookie to bring comfort on a cozy evening!
FAQ Section
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it has xanthan gum included for the best results. You won’t miss the regular flour one bit!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your Pumpkin Cookies with Pecans fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you want to save them for longer, pop them in the freezer. Just remember to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I use a different type of nut?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds if you need a nut-free option. Each will bring a unique flavor and texture to your cookies!
What’s a fun way to decorate these cookies for Halloween?
These cookies make perfect spooky snacks! You can use icing to draw little ghost faces or simply sprinkle some colored sugar on top before baking for a festive touch. Let your creativity shine!
Is there a way to reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Yes! You can adjust the sugar to your taste. You could even try using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that this might change the texture a bit. Enjoy experimenting!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Pumpkin Cookies with Pecans are truly a treat that you’ll find yourself making over and over again! Here’s why they’re so special:
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for those busy days or last-minute gatherings!
- Soft, chewy texture with a delightful crunch from the pecans—every bite is a cozy hug.
- Filled with warm spices that evoke the essence of fall—just the thing for chilly evenings.
- Versatile recipe that allows for substitutions, making it friendly for different dietary needs.
- Great for festive occasions, especially Halloween, as fun spooky snacks for friends and family!
- They freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy the taste of autumn anytime you want!
Trust me, once you bake these, they’ll become a beloved staple in your home! Enjoy every moment of the baking process and the smiles they bring.
For more delicious recipes, check out comforting casseroles or pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies.
Print
Pumpkin Cookies with Pecans: 7 Comforting Bites to Savor
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious pumpkin cookies with pecans, perfect for a cozy gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and softened butter.
- Add the egg and mix well.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Adjust sugar based on your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Pumpkin Cookies with Pecans, spooky snacks
