Name: Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (toasted); 1/3 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting); 1/2 cup brown sugar (for frosting); 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)

Golden, nutty, and sweetly glazed, Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies bring comfort and indulgence in every bite. These cookies are crisp on the edges, soft in the center, and blanketed with a creamy brown sugar frosting speckled with buttery toasted pecans. The flavor combo captures the essence of a classic Southern dessert in cookie form.

Perfect for cozy holidays, afternoon coffee breaks, or gifting, these cookies feel like a warm hug. The rich caramel tones from brown sugar and the deep nutty crunch of pecans create a cookie that feels both nostalgic and elevated. If you love pecan pie or anything glazed and golden, these cookies are bound to become a staple.

Why You’ll Love This Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Incredible Texture: Soft, chewy centers with a crisp edge.
Flavor Depth: Toasted pecans and brown sugar give buttery, caramel-like richness.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Both the cookies and frosting store well.
Versatile: Great for holidays, potlucks, or weekday treats.
Visually Stunning: That glossy frosting with pecans looks bakery-level.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get the best out of your Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, having the right tools makes all the difference:

Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper: Ensures even baking and no sticking.
Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Creaming butter and sugar to the right consistency is key.
Heavy-bottom Skillet: For toasting the pecans evenly without burning.
Cooling Rack: Allows cookies to cool completely before frosting.
Small Saucepan: Ideal for making the brown sugar frosting without scorching.
Cookie Scoop (optional): For evenly sized cookies every time.

Each tool contributes to a smoother process and bakery-style results. Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor, and the mixer gives your dough that perfect light and fluffy start.

Ingredients for the Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Unsalted Butter: The base of our dough; it brings rich, creamy flavor.
Brown Sugar: For that deep, molasses-infused sweetness and chewiness.
Granulated Sugar: Helps balance the moisture and texture.
Egg: Adds structure and binds the dough.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor and warmth of the cookie.
All-Purpose Flour: The structural component for the cookie base.
Baking Soda & Salt: Essential leavening and flavor balance.
Chopped Pecans: The star ingredient—toasted for depth and crunch.
Heavy Cream: For the silky, glossy frosting texture.
Powdered Sugar: Used in the frosting for sweetness and smooth consistency.

How To Make the Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast chopped pecans for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until aromatic. Remove from heat and let them cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a stand or hand mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until a dough forms. Fold in the toasted pecans.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Scoop dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a small saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 6: Frost the Cookies

Spoon or spread frosting over each cooled cookie, then top with extra pecan pieces while the frosting is still soft.

How to Serve and Store Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Serve these cookies at room temperature with a hot drink or as a dessert centerpiece. Their glossy tops and toasted pecan finish make them party-ready.

For storage, place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. To freeze, layer cookies between sheets of parchment in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain moisture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cookies in advance and frost them the day you plan to serve.

Do I have to toast the pecans?

Toasting enhances the flavor, but you can skip it if you’re in a rush.

Can I freeze the frosting?

It’s best used fresh, but you can store it refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheat gently before using.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

Milk works in a pinch, but the frosting won’t be as rich or thick.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies for a deeper caramel crunch.
Simple Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies for fruity, tangy flavor.
Chocolate Caramel Toffee Crunch Cake if you’re craving rich chocolatey indulgence.
Winter Brittle for more nutty, buttery dessert bites.
Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie to bring more nostalgic Southern charm.

Save This Pin For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you sprinkle more pecans on top? Add a dash of cinnamon? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own.

Looking for more comforting treats like this? Check out Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest where I share daily dessert favorites and Southern-inspired dishes.