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Irresistible Butter Pecan Shortbread Cookies: A Decadent Delight!

Are you craving a sweet treat that’s both buttery and nutty? Look no further than our delightful Butter Pecan Shortbread Cookies! These cookies are the perfect combination of rich buttery flavor and crunchy pecans, making them a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging in a cozy night in or sharing them with friends and family, these cookies are sure to impress. So, let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these mouthwatering treats!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup butter (2 sticks), melted
  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 cups flour
  • 4 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, molasses, and almond extract. Stir until well combined.

3. Add Dry Ingredients:

  • Gradually add the flour, cornstarch, and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

4. Shape the Cookies:

  • Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

5. Flatten the Cookies:

  • Use the bottom of a glass or the palm of your hand to gently flatten each dough ball into a round disc.

6. Bake in the Oven:

  • Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.

7. Cool and Enjoy:

  • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, serve and enjoy!

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

  • Toasting Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the dough enhances their flavor and adds a delicious nuttiness to the cookies. Simply spread the chopped pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
  • Substitute Almond Extract: If you’re not a fan of almond extract, you can substitute it with vanilla extract for a classic flavor profile.
  • Add Chocolate Chips: For an extra indulgent twist, fold in a handful of chocolate chips along with the chopped pecans for a delightful chocolatey addition to the cookies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? A: Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to adjust the amount of salt added to the recipe accordingly to avoid over-salting the cookies.

Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough? A: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for later use. Simply shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let the dough balls thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

Q: Can I omit the molasses from the recipe? A: While the molasses adds depth of flavor and a subtle sweetness to the cookies, you can omit it if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the cookies may have a slightly different flavor and texture without it.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following adjustments to adapt this recipe:

  • Almond Flour Substitute: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for a low-carb version of these cookies.
  • Sweetener Replacement: Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of brown sugar to reduce the carb content of the cookies.

In conclusion, our Butter Pecan Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their buttery flavor, crunchy pecans, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee in the morning or as an afternoon snack, these cookies are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the irresistible goodness of these homemade cookies!