Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are rich, buttery treats topped with a smooth maple glaze and packed with toasted pecans. The moment you take a bite, you’ll discover a delightful balance of sweetness and nutty flavors that make them irresistible. This Butter Pecan Cookie Recipe is so easy that it delivers bakery-level results without the fuss. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or served as a festive dessert during the holidays, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

These Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Here are a few reasons you’ll adore them:

**Quick and Easy**: This recipe for Easy Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies requires minimal ingredients and time.
**Perfect for Any Occasion**: Whether for a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these cookies fit right in.
**Soft and Chewy**: The texture is perfectly soft, making each bite a delight.
**Maple Glaze Adds Flavor**: The maple frosting gives a unique twist, enhancing the buttery flavor.
**Nutty Goodness**: Packed with toasted pecans, they deliver a satisfying crunch.
**Customizable**: Feel free to adjust the frosting thickness or add spices to suit your taste.
**Vegetarian**: Suitable for those following vegetarian diets.
**Family-Friendly**: Kids and adults alike will love these sweet treats.

Ingredients for Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Gather these items:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1–2 tablespoons milk or cream

How to Make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and toast chopped pecans for 6–8 minutes until fragrant. Cool completely.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in the toasted pecans gently without overmixing.
Step 6: Scoop dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 8: Whisk powdered sugar, maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon milk or cream. Adjust thickness with more milk if needed.
Step 9: Drizzle or spread glaze over completely cooled cookies. Let set for 15 minutes before serving.

Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies: 5 Tips for Baking Perfection - Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
You can use walnuts instead of pecans if preferred.
Adjust the glaze thickness according to your preference.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes for firmer cookies.

Best Ways to Serve Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

Consider these serving ideas:

Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Serve at holiday parties alongside other frosted cookies with pecans.
Offer as a dessert option for birthdays or special occasions.

How to Store and Reheat Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

To maintain freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions About Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

The secret lies in properly creaming the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. This step adds air to the dough, ensuring your cookies turn out soft and chewy. Also, toasting the pecans enhances their flavor, making these chewy butter pecan cookies with frosting even more delightful.

Can I make Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Simply scoop and bake when you’re ready for fresh cookies. This makes them perfect for holiday baking.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies?

To avoid common mistakes, measure your ingredients accurately and don’t overmix the dough after adding the flour. This will ensure your cookies remain tender and soft.

Variations of Frosted Butter Pecan Cookies You Can Try

Experiment with these variations:

Add chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
Try different frostings, such as cream cheese or chocolate glaze, for unique flavor profiles.
Use different nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, for a different crunchy texture.