Name: Sea Salt Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter (browned); 1 large egg; ¾ cup light brown sugar (packed); ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla; 1 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste); ¾ to 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus more for topping each cookie); ½ cup Fisher Pecans (chopped); flaky sea salt (to taste)

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There’s something truly magical about the combination of warm, gooey cookies and the irresistible aroma of browned butter. These Sea Salt Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies have become my go-to treat for celebrations and cozy nights in alike. Every time I make these cookies, the rich, nutty flavor of the browned butter brings back memories of family gatherings where we would indulge in freshly baked goodies straight from the oven. I can still hear the laughter and see the smiles of my loved ones as they bite into the soft, chewy centers, topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. It’s a simple recipe that transforms ordinary afternoons into something special.

As I whisked the brown sugar and egg together, I felt the excitement building, knowing each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the final masterpiece. The crunch of the pecans adds a delightful texture that perfectly complements the smooth chocolate chips, ensuring every bite is a harmonious blend of flavors. I love how these cookies can be enjoyed at any moment throughout the year, whether it’s a cozy winter evening or a sunny summer picnic. Regardless of the season, these cookies always seem to hit the spot.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
190 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
9 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk

The Magic of This Sea Salt Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies

Rich Flavor Profile

One of the standout features of the Sea Salt Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies is the rich, nutty flavor that the browned butter brings to the table. Browning the butter enhances its taste, giving the cookies a depth that plain butter simply can’t achieve. You’ll love the way the warm caramel notes mingle with the sweet and salty elements of the cookie.

Perfect Texture

The combination of ingredients creates a cookie that is both chewy and crispy. With the addition of cornstarch, these cookies maintain a soft center while the edges crisp up beautifully in the oven. I always appreciate a cookie that offers varying textures in each bite!

Versatile for Any Occasion

These cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a treat for a bake sale, or simply craving something sweet, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. You can serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert or enjoy them with a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.

Customizable Elements

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how easy it is to customize. While I adore the classic combination of chocolate chips and pecans, feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or even dried fruits to put a personal spin on these cookies. The basic dough is a fantastic base to get creative!

Make-Ahead Convenience

The dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer which makes these cookies an excellent choice for busy bakers. Simply scoop the dough into balls and refrigerate for up to five days, or freeze for future baking. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies whenever a craving strikes!

Classic Appeal

There’s a nostalgic charm to baking cookies, and these Sea Salt Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies carry that classic appeal that evokes fond memories of childhood. They have a way of bringing people together, making every gathering feel a little more special.

Ingredients Overview for Sea Salt Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies

When it comes to baking, the ingredients truly matter, and this recipe showcases a fantastic balance of flavors and textures. The key players—the browned butter, chocolate chips, and pecans—combine beautifully to create a cookie that’s not just a treat, but a memorable experience. Each ingredient serves a purpose, contributing to the overall delight of the Sea Salt Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies.

½ cup unsalted butter, browned – The star of the show, adding a rich and nutty flavor.
1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
¾ cup light brown sugar, packed – For sweetness and a lovely caramel flavor.
¼ cup granulated sugar – Balances the sweetness and creates a crispy texture.
2 teaspoons vanilla – Adds a warm aroma and enhances the cookie flavor.
1 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of the cookie, giving it structure.
2 teaspoons cornstarch – Ensures a soft and chewy texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste – Enhances the overall flavors and balances sweetness.
¾ to 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, plus more for topping – For that gooey chocolate goodness.
½ cup Fisher Pecans, chopped – Adds crunch and taste that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Flaky sea salt, to taste – A finishing touch that elevates the flavor profile.

Recipe Steps for Sea Salt Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies

Baking these cookies is a delightful experience that fills your home with irresistible scents. Follow these steps to create the perfect batch of Sea Salt Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies. Let’s dive into the process and make some delicious treats!

Start by browning the butter. In a medium saucepan, melt it over medium heat. Keep a close eye on it as it melts, swirling occasionally. You want the color to change from a pale yellow to a rich amber, which usually takes about five minutes. You’ll notice it starts to smell fragrant and nutty, which means it’s just right.
Once browned, pour the butter into a large mixing bowl. Make sure to scrape the bottom with a spatula to capture the flavorful browned bits. Let this cool for a moment before adding the egg to prevent scrambling.
Incorporate the egg, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla into the mixing bowl. Use a whisk to mix until fully combined and the batter is smooth.
Next, add the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and kosher salt to the mixture. Stir gently until everything is just combined. The dough might look a little crumbly and oily, but that’s completely normal for this recipe.
Now it’s time to fold in the chocolate chips and pecans. If you want, lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet until they’re aromatic before mixing them in. Stir well to ensure an even distribution of chocolate chips and pecans.
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form approximately 16 equal-sized mounds of dough. Roll them into balls and flatten them slightly. You can also place a few extra chocolate chips and pecans on top for presentation.
Arrange the cookie mounds on a large plate or tray and cover them with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least four hours, or up to five days. Don’t skip this step—chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with a Silpat or spray it with cooking spray. Space the cookie mounds at least two inches apart on the sheet, as they will spread.
Bake for about 10 to 11.5 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the cookies should have set edges and glossy centers. They might look slightly underbaked, but they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps them set up perfectly without falling apart.

Things Worth Knowing

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature before starting. This helps them incorporate better into the dough.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet initially to prevent them from crumbling when you try to move them too soon.
Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is essential to achieve the perfect texture. It helps control spreading and enhances flavors.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Here are some of my best tips for making the Sea Salt Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies even more enjoyable:

Storage: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This ensures they stay soft and chewy.
Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough for up to four months. Scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-top bag.
Pairing: These cookies pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee, making them a perfect snack any time of day.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, like walnuts or macadamia nuts, or add a swirl of caramel or peanut butter for a fun twist.
Serving: Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that everyone will love.

Accompaniments for Sea Salt Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies

These Sea Salt Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies are a treat that can be enjoyed any time and with various accompaniments:

Warm Drinks: Pair your cookies with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee for a cozy afternoon break.
Parties: They make a great addition to any dessert table at parties or family gatherings—everyone loves cookies!
Lunch Boxes: Slip a couple of cookies into lunch boxes for a delightful surprise.
Seasonal Occasions: Perfect for holiday gatherings, bake sales, or even casual get-togethers.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Create delicious ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies.

FAQ

Browned butter adds a depth of flavor that’s incredibly rich and nutty. As it cooks, the milk solids caramelize, which enhances the overall taste of the cookies. This process also gives the cookies a unique aroma that elevates the baking experience. Many bakers swear by it for cookies because it takes the flavor profile to a whole new level!

Absolutely! While pecans give a lovely crunch and flavor, you can easily replace them with walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts. Each nut will bring its distinct taste and texture, so feel free to experiment and discover your perfect combination. Just make sure they’re chopped to a similar size to ensure even distribution throughout the cookie dough.

You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them. They can last in the freezer for up to six months! Just make sure they’re properly sealed to avoid freezer burn. For best results, enjoy them freshly baked or thawed for the ultimate gooey experience.

If you don’t have cornstarch on hand, you can use a bit more flour instead. You can substitute one tablespoon of cornstarch with about two tablespoons of all-purpose flour. The texture may vary slightly, but you’ll still end up with delicious cookies. The cornstarch helps keep the cookies soft and chewy, so keep that in mind!

Conclusion

The Sea Salt Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies are a delightful treat that marry rich flavors with comforting textures. Each cookie offers an unforgettable experience, making them a must-try for any baking enthusiast. I encourage you to whip up a batch and see for yourself just how special these cookies are. You won’t regret it!