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Butter Pecan Icebox Cookies

Classic Southern-style butter pecan icebox cookies with a rich flavor and tender texture, perfect for easy entertaining and making ahead.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

  1. Beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  2. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
  3. Whisk together the flour and salt in a separate bowl.
  4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
  5. Fold in the finely chopped pecans.
  6. Divide the dough and shape each half into a log, roll in granulated sugar, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 120 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  8. Slice chilled logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
  9. Place cookies on the baking sheet and bake for 12 to 14 minutes until lightly golden.
  10. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Notes

Chill the dough for easier slicing; you can freeze the logs for longer storage.

Nutrition

Keywords: cookies, butter pecan, icebox cookies, Southern dessert, make-ahead cookies