The Best Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookie Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a freshly baked cookie, and when it comes to flavor and texture, chocolate chip pecan cookies are in a league of their own. These warm, buttery treats are where rich chocolate meets the crunchy nuttiness of pecans, creating the perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just someone with a sweet tooth, this recipe is simple, foolproof, and guaranteed to make your home smell heavenly. Here’s everything you need to know to bake the ultimate chocolate chip pecan cookies from scratch.

Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies

Chocolate chip pecan cookies bring something special to the table. Here’s what makes them irresistible:

• Perfect Texture: Crispy edges with a soft, chewy center.
• Flavor Combos: The sweetness of chocolate chips perfectly complements the buttery, nutty flavor of pecans.
• Easy to Make: No advanced baking skills required! This is a great recipe for beginners and experts alike.
• Versatile: Whether you pair them with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or enjoy them on their own, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Most of these ingredients are staples in any home baker’s pantry. Here's what you'll need:

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs

Add-ins:

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Optional tip: For an elevated flavor, lightly toast the chopped pecans before adding them to the dough.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your cookies to perfection:

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 4: Add Vanilla and Eggs

Mix in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Pecans

Using a spatula, gently fold the chocolate chips and chopped pecans into the dough until evenly distributed.

Step 7: Portion the Cookies

Scoop the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls (or about 2 tablespoons each) and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers still look slightly soft.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days (if they last that long!).

Pro Tip: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on the cookies before baking for an extra pop of flavor.

Tips for Baking the Best Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies

1. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients

For evenly mixed dough, ensure your butter, eggs, and other ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

2. Chill the Dough

If you want even thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.

3. Toast the Pecans

Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds an extra layer of nuttiness to the cookies. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant.

4. Don’t Overbake

The key to chewy cookies is not overbaking. Pull them out when the centers look slightly underdone; they’ll firm up as they cool.

5. Play with Add-ins

Want to customize your cookies? Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips. Add shredded coconut or swap pecans for walnuts or almonds.

Why Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies Make the Best Gift

These cookies aren’t just a treat for your taste buds; they’re also the perfect heartfelt gift for friends and family. Their irresistible flavor and lovely texture make them a hit for any occasion, from birthdays to holidays. Package them in a decorative box or wrap them in parchment paper tied with twine for a thoughtful, homemade gift.

Bake These Cookies and Share the Joy

Now that you have the ultimate recipe for chocolate chip pecan cookies, it’s time to get baking. These cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, impressing guests, or just treating yourself to something special.