Brown Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Name: Brown Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1 cup chopped pecans

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

Indulge in the deliciously nutty and rich flavor of Brown Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies, the perfect treat for cookie lovers.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:04:20.420Z

These Brown Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The nutty aroma of brown butter combined with crunchy pecans and melty chocolate chips creates an irresistible treat. Perfect for sharing or indulging on your own!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty brown butter
Crunchy pecans add a delightful texture
Perfect for gatherings or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Allure of Brown Butter

Brown butter, or beurre noisette, is a culinary treasure that transforms ordinary recipes into extraordinary delights. The process of browning butter involves cooking it until it develops a deep, nutty flavor and a rich, golden hue. This simple step adds complexity and depth to your cookies, making each bite a delightful experience. The caramelized notes of brown butter pair beautifully with chocolate and nuts, creating a harmonious balance that elevates the classic chocolate chip cookie to gourmet status.

Using brown butter in these cookies not only enhances the flavor but also adds a luxurious texture. The slight toffee-like richness infuses every cookie, making them irresistibly moreish. This technique may take a few extra minutes, but the results are well worth the effort. Once you experience the depth of flavor that brown butter brings, you’ll want to use it in all your baking adventures.

Pecan Power

Pecans are more than just a delicious addition to these cookies; they are packed with essential nutrients and health benefits. Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, pecans contribute to heart health, weight management, and overall well-being. Adding pecans not only provides a satisfying crunch but also enhances the nutritional profile of your cookies, making them a more wholesome treat.

When chopped and mixed into the dough, pecans offer a delightful contrast to the soft, chewy texture of the cookies. Their slightly sweet, buttery flavor complements the brown butter and chocolate beautifully. Whether you’re enjoying them with a glass of milk or as an afternoon pick-me-up, these cookies deliver a satisfying bite that will please cookie enthusiasts and health-conscious bakers alike.

Perfect Pairings

These Brown Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies are versatile and pair wonderfully with various beverages. For a classic combination, serve them warm with a glass of cold milk. The rich flavors of the cookie harmonize perfectly with the creamy texture of the milk, creating a comforting treat for all ages. Alternatively, for adults, a hot cup of coffee or espresso enhances the chocolate and nutty flavors, making each bite even more enjoyable.

If you prefer something sweeter, consider pairing these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm cookies contrast beautifully with the cold ice cream, creating a delightful dessert experience. You could also drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce over the top for an extra layer of indulgence. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Brown the Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the browned butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and stir until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Fold in the Add-ins

Add the chocolate chips and chopped pecans to the dough, folding them in gently.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden.

Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy your freshly baked cookies with a glass of milk!

Storing Your Cookies

To maintain freshness, store your Brown Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and chewy for up to a week, making them perfect for a week-long treat. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Once baked and cooled, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes, or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up. This way, you can always have a delicious cookie ready to satisfy your cravings, making these treats not only delightful but also convenient.

Customizing Your Cookies

One of the best aspects of baking cookies is the ability to customize them to your taste. Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate; dark, milk, or even white chocolate can add unique flavor profiles to your cookies. You could also swap out pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or even add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy contrast.

If you’re looking for a more decadent treat, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for an irresistible sweet-salty combination. This small addition elevates the flavor even further, making each bite a gourmet experience. With these adjustments, you can make these cookies your own while enjoying the base recipe’s delightful flavors.

Baking Tips for Success

For best results, ensure your butter is at the right temperature before mixing it with the sugars. Brown butter should be slightly cooled but still liquid when combined with other wet ingredients. This helps to achieve the perfect texture—soft and chewy rather than cakey. Also, avoid overmixing the dough after adding the flour, as this can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft.

Lastly, consider chilling your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, resulting in thicker, chewier treats. Plus, chilling the dough enhances the flavors, allowing them to meld beautifully. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to baking the perfect batch of Brown Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake when ready.

→ What can I do if my cookies spread too much?

Make sure your butter isn't too warm when mixing, and chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking to help them maintain their shape.