What makes Browned Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies different from regular chocolate chip cookies?

Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty, caramel-like flavor that elevates the classic chocolate chip cookie. Combined with toasted pecans, these cookies are more flavorful and have a deeper, more complex taste than standard chocolate chip cookies or basic chocolate chip pecan cookies recipes.

Can I substitute walnuts for pecans in chocolate chip pecan cookies?

Yes, walnuts work well as a substitute, offering a slightly earthier flavor. While pecans are buttery and sweet, walnuts still pair perfectly with browned butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delicious variation of the best chocolate chip pecan cookies.

How do I get my Browned Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies soft in the center but crispy on the edges?

Use browned butter, a mix of brown and granulated sugar, and chill the dough for 30–60 minutes before baking. Bake until the edges are golden and the centers are just set. This method ensures chewy, melty chocolate centers with slightly crisp edges, creating the ultimate crispy chocolate chip pecan cookies recipe.

Are there healthier versions of chocolate chip pecan cookies?

Yes. Swap part of the flour with whole wheat, reduce sugar, or use coconut oil instead of butter. Dark chocolate chips and lightly toasted pecans can make the cookies healthier while still keeping them soft, chewy, and full of the signature nutty flavor found in Browned Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Browned Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Name: Browned Butter Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter; 1 cup packed brown sugar; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 ½ cups pecans, toasted and chopped; 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Description

These cookies are rich, buttery, and loaded with toasted pecans and melty chocolate chips. Browning the butter gives them a nutty, caramel-like flavor, making them irresistible. Crispy on the edges and soft in the center, they’re perfect for a cozy treat or gift.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for ~24 cookies):

For the Cookies:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups pecans, toasted and chopped
1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Cook, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 5–7 minutes).
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and browned butter until smooth.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet until just combined.
Fold in toasted pecans and chocolate chips.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Chill dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading and enhance flavor.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Scoop dough onto the sheet (about 2 tablespoons per cookie, spaced 2 inches apart).
Bake 10–12 minutes, until edges are golden but centers are slightly soft.
Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Toasting Pecans: Toast pecans in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes for extra flavor.
Chewy vs. Crispy: Bake a minute less for softer cookies, a minute longer for crispier edges.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze dough for later baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert / Cookie
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American