Are you ready to embrace the cozy flavors of autumn? Then look no further! These Pumpkin Pecan Cookies are the perfect treat to satisfy your fall cravings. They're incredibly easy to make, bursting with delicious pumpkin spice, and delightfully crunchy thanks to the pecans. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready for a quick dinner idea that's also a healthy and delicious dessert!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecan halves, roughly chopped
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is easily done with an electric mixer, but you can also use a good old-fashioned hand mixer or even a strong whisk for a great arm workout!
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add Dry Ingredients:
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Finishing Touches:
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Stir in the chopped pecans.
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Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
Bake to Perfection:
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Don't overbake, or they'll be dry!
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Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Pecan Cookies:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened – this will ensure that it creams well with the sugar, resulting in a light and fluffy cookie.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will give your cookies the most vibrant flavor.
Variations:
- Chocolate Chunk Pumpkin Pecan Cookies: Add ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chunks to the dough for an extra decadent treat.
- Spiced Pumpkin Pecan Cookies: Increase the spices – add a little more cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of allspice for a more intense flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pecan Cookies: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 200-250 Fat: 10-12g Sugar: 15-20g
Enjoy these delicious and easy-to-make Pumpkin Pecan Cookies! They're perfect for fall gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home. These best recipes are sure to be a hit with everyone. They're a great example of healthy meals that don't compromise on flavor. Happy baking!