If you are on the hunt for a charming, melt-in-your-mouth treat that pairs beautifully with an afternoon tea or a cozy holiday gathering, the Pecan Ball Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These delicate, buttery cookies are packed with the warm, nutty flavor of finely ground pecans and finished with a snowy coating of powdered sugar that adds a sweet, festive touch. They bring together simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that’s both satisfying and elegantly rustic, promising a bite of nostalgia with every cookie. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers a rewarding experience and irresistibly tender results that will have everyone asking for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pecan Ball Cookies Recipe uses an uncomplicated lineup of ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and visual appeal. From the rich butter contributing to tender, crumbly bites to the pecans adding nutty depth and crunch, every element is thoughtfully chosen.
- 2 1/4 cups pecans, finely chopped/ground: The star ingredient that lends a buttery, toasted flavor along with delightful texture.
- 2 sticks unsalted butter (room temp): Provides richness and moisture essential for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Integrates sweetness and helps achieve a delicate crumb.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and slight crunch to the dough.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the nutty flavor.
- 2 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Brings warmth and aromatic depth that complements the nutty base.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that shapes these cookies and gives them structure.
- 1 cup powdered confectioners’ sugar (to dust): Creates that classic, snowy coating that’s both visually inviting and sweet.
- 1/2 cup crushed pecans: Mixed in the coating for added crunch and extra pecan goodness on the outside.
How to Make Pecan Ball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Pecans
Start by placing the pecans in a food processor or small chopper and grind them just until they reach a coarse, almost-ground consistency. This method ensures you get a wonderful nutty texture that melts into the cookies, rather than a paste.
Step 2: Making the Creamy Butter Mixture
Using a standing mixer, beat the room temperature butter along with 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1/3 cup granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for light, airy cookies with a tender crumb.
Step 3: Adding Flavors and Flour
Mix in the salt and pure vanilla extract next, combining thoroughly. Then, add your flour gradually, about 1/2 cup at a time, beating after each addition until just incorporated to avoid overworking the dough, which could make the cookies tough.
Step 4: Incorporating Pecans and Chilling the Dough
Fold in the crushed pecans gently to ensure they are evenly distributed. Cover the dough loosely with parchment paper and place it in the refrigerator for one hour; chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to shape and enhancing the cookies’ texture.
Step 5: Shaping and Baking
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough and roll each scoop into a smooth ball. Place them on the sheet about 1 to 2 inches apart to allow for gentle spreading. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the edges are just turning golden.
Step 6: The Signature Sugar Coating
Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for five minutes before you dip them in a mixture of powdered confectioners’ sugar and crushed pecans. This final coating not only adds sweetness but also a delicate crunch and gorgeous finish.
How to Serve Pecan Ball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
The classic coating of powdered sugar and crushed pecans is irresistible on its own, but you can elevate your presentation by sprinkling a few whole pecan halves on top or adding a tiny dusting of cinnamon for a festive aroma and a hint of warmth.
Side Dishes
Pair your Pecan Ball Cookies with a rich cup of coffee, chai tea, or even dessert wine for an elegant touch. These cookies also make a lovely companion to a bowl of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to turn them into a decadent dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or entertaining, arrange the cookies in a tiered dessert stand or packaged in clear boxes tied with a ribbon. You can also sandwich two cookies together with a light spread of cream cheese frosting or Nutella for a fun twist on this classic cookie.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies maintain their freshness and remain delightfully tender for up to a week. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezing
To enjoy the Pecan Ball Cookies Recipe anytime, freeze the baked and fully cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep superbly for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
If you like your cookies with a little warmth, gently reheat them in a low oven (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will bring back that freshly baked feel and soften the texture beautifully.
FAQs
Can I substitute other nuts for pecans in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are the classic choice for this recipe, walnuts or almonds can be delicious alternatives, offering a slightly different but equally satisfying flavor and texture.
What can I do if my dough feels too dry?
If your dough seems crumbly or too dry, add a teaspoon of milk or cream gradually until it holds together well. Remember, butter temperature can also affect this, so make sure it’s softened enough before mixing.
Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?
Yes, chilling the dough helps the flavors develop and firms it up so the cookies keep their shape better in the oven, resulting in a tender texture and preventing excessive spreading.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose baking flour blend. Just be sure the blend includes xanthan gum or similar binders to help maintain the dough’s structure.
How do I prevent the cookies from over-browning?
Keep a close eye on the cookies in the final minutes of baking and remove them as soon as they turn lightly golden around the edges. Using parchment paper and the correct oven temperature also helps ensure even, gentle baking.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Ball Cookies Recipe is such a charming and rewarding bake that I genuinely hope you’ll give it a try. It’s a wonderful way to bring a touch of warmth and sweetness to your kitchen, whether for special occasions or a simple moment of indulgence. The combination of buttery dough, nutty pecans, and sugary coating makes for a cookie you’ll treasure—and want to share with everyone you love.
Print
Pecan Ball Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pecan Ball Cookies are buttery, nutty treats featuring finely chopped pecans mixed into a tender dough, baked until golden and then generously coated in powdered sugar and crushed pecans. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or whenever you crave a sweet, nutty dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup powdered confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
- 1/2 cup crushed pecans (for coating)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Nuts
- 2 1/4 cups pecans, finely chopped or ground
Instructions
- Chop Pecans. Place pecans in a food processor or small chopper and grind until finely chopped but not completely powdered.
- Cream Butter and Sugars. In a standing mixer bowl, beat the room temperature butter, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1/3 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Add Flavorings. Mix in the salt and vanilla extract until fully combined with the butter mixture.
- Incorporate Flour. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup at a time, beating after each addition until the dough is smooth and fully combined.
- Add Ground Pecans. Fold in the finely chopped pecans and mix until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Chill Dough. Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper and refrigerate the dough for 1 hour to firm up.
- Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop and Shape Cookies. Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll each portion into a smooth ball. Place the balls on the baking sheet, spacing them 1-2 inches apart.
- Bake. Bake the cookies for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool Cookies. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Prepare Coating. In a large bowl, combine the powdered confectioners’ sugar with the crushed pecans, stirring to mix evenly.
- Coat Cookies. Roll each warm cookie in the powdered sugar and crushed pecan mixture until evenly coated. Repeat for all cookies.
Notes
- Room temperature butter ensures easier mixing and a lighter cookie texture.
- Be careful not to over-process pecans; a coarse grind adds texture.
- Chilling the dough makes the cookies easier to scoop and helps maintain their shape while baking.
- For a deeper pecan flavor, lightly toast pecans before grinding.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
