Short Description
These Brown Sugar Pecan Oatmeal Cookies are a warm, comforting treat, perfect for any occasion. The combination of brown sugar, pecans, and oats creates a chewy, slightly nutty, and deeply satisfying cookie that’s sure to become a family favorite. Imagine the aroma of these baking in your oven – pure bliss!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is a crucial step for achieving the right texture, so don’t rush it! The mixture should be noticeably lighter in color and airy.
Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
Step 4: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Whisking ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is important for consistent baking.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. Mix until the flour is just incorporated.
Step 6: Fold in the oats and chopped pecans until evenly distributed. Ensure the oats and pecans are spread evenly throughout the dough for the best flavor and texture in every bite.
Step 7: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows the cookies enough room to spread while baking.
Step 8: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Keep a close eye on the cookies, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
Step 9: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cookies from breaking apart while they are still warm and soft.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring simple ingredients and minimal effort. The combination of brown sugar and pecans gives them a rich, nutty flavor that’s hard to resist. They’re also perfectly chewy and satisfying, making them an ideal treat for any time of day. Plus, the addition of oats makes them slightly healthier than your average cookie!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a cold glass of milk.
- Enjoy with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a delightful midday treat.
- Offer them as a dessert after a comforting meal.
- Crumble them over vanilla ice cream for a delicious sundae.
Tips:
- For extra chewy cookies, use slightly underripe bananas.
- Make sure your butter is properly softened for easy creaming.
- Don’t overmix the dough to avoid tough cookies.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Add chocolate chips for an even more decadent treat!
- Toast the pecans lightly before chopping to enhance their flavor.
- For a variation, try using different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes
Nutrition Information: (Per cookie, approximate)
Calories and nutrient values will vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 75mg
Conclusion
These Brown Sugar Pecan Oatmeal Cookies are more than just a recipe; they’re an experience. From the moment you start creaming the butter and sugar to the moment you take your first bite, you’ll be transported to a place of warmth and comfort. So go ahead, bake a batch of these delightful cookies and share the love with your family and friends. They won’t be disappointed!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
A: While you can use quick oats, the texture of the cookies will be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats provide a chewier texture, while quick oats will result in a softer cookie.
Q2: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Yes, you can! Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q3: I don’t have pecans. Can I use another type of nut?
A: Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts would be delicious substitutes for pecans.
Q4: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
Q5: Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
A: You can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that sugar contributes to the texture and browning of the cookies. Reducing it too much may affect the final result. Start by reducing each sugar by 1/4 cup and see how you like the results.
