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Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Irresistible Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies With a Bourbon Twist

Indulge in Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies enriched with bourbon for a delightful treat ideal for cozy gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 42 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Dough
  • 1.5 cups Pecan Halves Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; walnuts are a great substitute.
  • 2.5 sticks Unsalted Butter Provides richness; one stick is for buttering pecans, while the others are browned for a deeper flavor.
  • 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour The foundation of the cookies; you can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; don't skip this!
  • 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Offers a warm aroma; it can easily be left out if you prefer a simpler cookie.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Baking Soda Essential leavening agent that helps the cookies rise perfectly.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Essential leavening agent that helps the cookies rise perfectly.
  • 1 cup Dark Brown Sugar Gives a deep, rich sweetness; for a milder taste, you can use light brown sugar instead.
  • 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar Aids in crispiness and contributes to the overall sweetness.
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Boosts the overall flavor; try substituting with vanilla bean paste for a gourmet touch.
  • 3 tablespoons Bourbon Adds a unique flavor that makes these cookies subtly boozy; for a non-alcoholic version, opt for extra vanilla extract.
  • 2 large Eggs Provides binding and a rich texture; consider flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
  • 8 ounces Semi-Sweet or Dark Chocolate Contributes to the cookie’s richness; milk chocolate can be substituted for a sweeter treat.
For Toppings
  • 24 Pecan Halves Perfect for an appealing presentation; you can omit these or swap for chocolate pieces if preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon Flaky Sea Salt Optional but highly recommended to elevate the flavor; kosher salt works if that's what you have on hand.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • medium saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • cookie scoop

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Buttered Pecans: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 stick of unsalted butter until bubbling. Add in the chopped pecans and toast for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set the pecans aside to cool.
  2. Brown Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the remaining 1.5 sticks of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Stir constantly for about 5-7 minutes until the butter turns a deep amber color and emits a nutty aroma. Transfer to a mixing bowl to cool slightly.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine 2.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 0.5 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 0.5 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Whisk well and set aside.
  4. Combine Wet Ingredients: To the bowl with the cooled brown butter, add 1 cup of dark brown sugar and 0.5 cup of granulated sugar. Mix well, then stir in 3 tablespoons of bourbon and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Incorporate 2 large eggs one at a time.
  5. Fold in Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in the toasted pecans and 8 ounces of chopped chocolate.
  6. Chill Dough: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
  7. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  8. Shape Cookies: Using a large cookie scoop, scoop out approximately 3 tablespoons of dough for each cookie. Place on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each.
  9. Bake: Bake the cookies for 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are still slightly soft. Press in more chocolate chunks and pecans if desired.
  10. Cool: Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheets for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookieCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, ensure that your butter is browned perfectly, chill the dough adequately, and use room temperature eggs for optimal mixing.

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