Introduction to Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Let me tell you about the latest addition to my baking repertoire: Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies. Imagine this: rich buttery flavors; crispy, toasted pecans; and deep, dark chocolate. An indulgence that’s so shining star sensory and achieves high marks in no time at all. Whether you want to blow away your guests, or just need a little something special to brighten your day, these are the ticket. Whether you need a little something special for a holiday celebration or just a cozy night at home, these cookies are sure to do the trick!
Why You’ll Love This Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies
What makes these cookies a must-try? For starters, they are incredibly easy to make. Brown butter brings a depth of flavor that elevates a classic chocolate chip cookie to something extraordinary. Plus, you can prep the dough ahead of time and let it chill, making them perfect for busy moms like us. Each bite is a delightful dance of rich chocolate and crunchy pecans, guaranteed to make your taste buds sing!
Ingredients for Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to create these fantastic Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies. I love using high-quality ingredients to really bring out the flavors, and some of these are essential for that perfect cookie texture and taste. You’ll find the exact quantities at the bottom of this article, so no worries about measuring just yet!
- Pecan halves: These delightful nuts add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. You can chop them finely or leave them in halves for a more rustic look.
- Unsalted butter: We use both regular and browned butter in this recipe. The browned butter gives a deep, nutty flavor that makes these cookies unforgettable.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of any good cookie. It gives structure while keeping the texture soft and chewy.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness. Trust me, it’s a game changer!
- Ground cinnamon: It adds a warm, cozy spice that pairs beautifully with the chocolate and bourbon.
- Baking soda and baking powder: These are your leavening agents, ensuring your cookies rise perfectly and have that ideal chewy texture.
- Dark brown sugar: Packed with molasses, it adds rich sweetness and moisture, making your cookies soft and decadent.
- Granulated sugar: Just a bit of this helps the cookies spread and crisp up nicely on the edges.
- Vanilla extract: A must-have for enhancing the overall flavor profile. It brings everything together wonderfully!
- Bourbon: This is what makes these cookies extra special. The rich, warm notes of bourbon take the flavor to another level.
- Eggs: They provide moisture and create that delightful chewy texture. Always use room temperature eggs for the best result!
- Chocolate chunks: Chunky, gooey chocolate creates bursts of sweetness in every bite. You can mix it up with semi-sweet or dark chocolate based on your preference.
- Pecan halves for decoration (optional): These look beautiful on top of each cookie and add an extra crunch!
- Flaky sea salt (optional): A sprinkle on top right before serving enhances the flavor, creating a sweet-salty masterpiece!
How to Make Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Ready to create these delicious Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies? Let’s dive into the delightful steps that will lead you to cookie perfection!
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add your finely chopped pecans and melt a tablespoon and a half of unsalted butter. Stir occasionally for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re golden and fragrant. This will enhance their nutty flavor and make your cookies even more irresistible!
Step 2: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt the remaining unsalted butter over medium heat. Swirl the pan occasionally, allowing it to cook until it turns a rich amber color and develops a nutty aroma. This step is crucial because browned butter transforms your cookies with its deep flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder. This mix holds the structure of the cookies, ensuring they rise beautifully and have that perfect chewy texture.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! In a separate bowl, combine the browned butter with dark brown sugar and granulated sugar. Using a mixer on medium speed, beat until creamy. Then, add the vanilla extract and bourbon, mixing until smooth. The bourbon adds a warm kick that harmonizes perfectly with the chocolate!
Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating for about 15 seconds after each addition. Next, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to over-mix. You want to see just a hint of flour before moving to the next step. Fold in the chocolate chunks and the toasted pecans until evenly distributed. This is where cookie magic happens!
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover your dough and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while improving the cookie texture. Patience is key here!
Step 7: Preheat and Prepare the Oven
Once the chilling time is up, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper, making it easy to transfer the cookies after baking. This little trick also helps prevent sticking!
Step 8: Scoop the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough into 3-tablespoon balls and place them onto the baking sheets, ensuring you leave about 3 inches apart between each dough ball. This allows them to spread beautifully while baking.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Pop the cookies in the oven and bake for around 12 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown. If they start to spread too much, feel free to press the edges back in gently with a spatula. After all, you want them to look perfect!
Step 10: Set and Cool Cookies
As soon as they come out of the oven, press some extra chocolate chunks and a few pecan halves on top. You can also sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt for that sweet-salty contrast. Let the cookies rest on the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. The waiting may be tough, but it will be worth it when you take that first bite!
Tips for Success
- Always use room temperature eggs for better mixing and texture.
- Chill the dough for a minimum of 4 hours to deepen flavors and improve the cookie’s texture.
- For a unique twist, try different types of chocolate chunks, like milk or white chocolate.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different, and slight adjustments may be needed.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup!
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl – A sturdy bowl makes mixing easy. Alternatively, a stand mixer works wonders.
- Medium saucepan – Perfect for browning butter. A small skillet can also be used.
- Whisk – Ideal for combining dry ingredients. A fork works in a pinch!
- Cookie scoop – For even-sized cookies. A tablespoon can work too.
- Baking sheets – Use two for baking multiple batches. Just line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Variations
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Try adding a pinch of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor; it’s an unexpected delight!
- Substitute bourbon with rum or a splash of your favorite flavored extract for a different twist.
- Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for an extra layer of flavor and chewiness.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans and add more chocolate chunks for crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- Pair these cookies with a chilled glass of milk or a rich coffee blend to enhance the flavors.
- For a festive touch, arrange cookies on a beautiful platter and dust with powdered sugar.
- Enjoy them in a cozy gathering with friends over hot cocoa or spiced cider.
- Wrap a few cookies in parchment and gift them in a mason jar as a sweet surprise!
FAQs about Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Curious about Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies? Here are some common questions to help guide you through this delicious recipe journey!
Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans add a unique flavor, you can try walnuts or almonds for a delightful twist. Just make sure to toast them for added richness!
How do I store these cookies to keep them fresh?
To maintain their softness and flavor, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last about a week, but trust me, they won’t last that long!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. The flavors will continue to develop, making your cookies even more delicious!
What’s the trick to achieving chewy cookies?
Using both brown and granulated sugars helps create that sought-after chewiness. Also, chilling the dough is crucial; it allows the flour to absorb moisture, resulting in a perfectly chewy texture.
Can I freeze the baked cookies for later?
Definitely! Allow them to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll maintain their taste and texture for up to three months. Just warm them slightly before serving for that fresh-baked feel!
Final Thoughts
Indulging in Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies is more than just enjoying a dessert; it’s an experience! The rich flavors mingle beautifully, making each bite a blissful moment of joy. Baking these cookies fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that spark creativity and warmth. As you share them with friends or family, you create delightful memories, too. After all, who can resist a warm, gooey cookie? I hope you find as much happiness in baking and savoring these treats as I do. Let these cookies bring a little sweetness into your busy days!
Print
Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies
- Total Time: 4 hours 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies that combine rich flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 and 1/2 cups (170 grams) pecan halves, finely chopped
- 1 and 1/2 tablespoons (24 grams) unsalted butter
- 2 sticks (226 grams) unsalted butter, melted until browned
- 2 and 1/2 cups (300 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) salt
- 1/2 teaspoon (1 gram) ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup (213 grams) dark brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup (99 grams) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons (8 grams) vanilla extract
- 3 Tablespoons (42 grams) bourbon
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 8 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, roughly chopped into chunks
- 24 pecan halves, for decoration (optional)
- 1 Tablespoon flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add chopped pecans and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 5 minutes until lightly toasted. Set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until browned, swirling occasionally, until it reaches a rich amber color with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and pour into a mixing bowl.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder; whisk and set aside.
- Using a mixer, combine melted browned butter and both sugars; beat on medium speed until combined.
- Add vanilla and bourbon; beat until combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating 15 seconds after each addition. Using a spoon, gently fold in flour until it begins to disappear. Then fold in chocolate chunks and buttered pecans.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 4 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Using a cookie scoop, divide the dough into 3-tablespoon balls and place on baking sheets, leaving 3 inches apart.
- Press a pecan half on top of each cookie ball.
- Bake for 12 minutes or until golden brown. Press edges back in if they spread.
- Press extra chocolate chunks and pecans on top of warm cookies, sprinkle with sea salt, and cool on the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Refrigerating the dough enhances the flavors and texture.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate for varying sweetness.
- Prep Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
