Ingredients
Scale
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Pecan Filling:
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
1. Preparing the Cookie Dough
- Cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
2. Making the Pecan Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped toasted pecans, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is well-coated and evenly combined. Set aside.
3. Assembling the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop small balls of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Flatten each dough ball slightly and create a small indentation in the center. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the pecan filling into the center of each cookie.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to seal, then reshape into a ball.
4. Baking the Cookies
- Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges and slightly firm in the center.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the dough and filling in advance, then store in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
- Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian