I know I say this often, but Fridays are made ten times better with cookies…always, always. The classic chocolate chip cookie can do no wrong and only makes life better, happier…and much more satisfying. I know you know what I’m talking about, cookies are just GOOD. I’m not sure why, but I’ve really been on a HUGE cookie kick this year. Maybe it’s because most are easy to make. Or maybe it’s because cookies bring back the best memories for me. Or maybe it’s just because the world simply needs more cookies this year. Either way, I’m loving cookies. But these cookies? You guys these cookies are really everything I love the most. They remind me more of the fall than spring, but it’s OK because with the Kentucky Derby this weekend I gave myself a pass and decided that we could indeed make pecan cookies in April. And really (yes, this is dramatic), these cookies are magical.
The inspiration
The inspiration was really simple….the Kentucky Derby is tomorrow. And while I’m not sure I’ve ever watched the entire two-minute race live, I know some people who LOVE to celebrate the day with friends and good food (yes, you Cortney!). I also think it’s a fun excuse to celebrate something that isn’t a holiday but that you really enjoy. Immediately when I think of the Derby, I think bourbon and pecans. So last week I put this idea together in my head. I wasn’t positive if I should make them or not, but I’m sure glad I did.
The process to the (almost) perfect cookie
I say almost, because I don’t really believe anything is perfect, but these are pretty darn close. There are three key steps to these cookies… I feel like the browned butter is obvious. I like to brown half of the butter, but leave the other half at room temp. This gives you the flavor of browned butter but leaves you with a cookie that has a great texture too. It also highlights the malted flavors. I know it’s an extra step, but the browned butter really does add so much to these cookies. In my view, it’s an extra step worth taking.
Second, the bourbon brown sugar pecans. It’s not a usual cookie ingredient but it’s what really sets these cookies apart. The pecans get toasted with brown sugar and bourbon which gives them a rich sweetness. If you’ve never had bourbon with your pecans, it a marriage of flavors that is so delicious. And then, the bourbon itself, which is both on the pecans and in the cookies. It’s not like these cookies taste like bourbon, because they don’t. The bourbon provides a very rich and delicious flavor with subtle notes of both bourbon and vanilla.
The details…
Like most cookies, these are EASY. Toast the pecans together with brown sugar and bourbon. Then brown the butter, let cool, and simply mix everything together. Then bake, eat, and enjoy. As I do with almost all my cookies, these need a tap on the counter to create that crinkly type of cookie during both the middle and the end of baking. Aside from browning the butter and tapping the baking sheet, the rest is is easy. When the cookies come out of the oven, the pockets of melted chocolate will be bubbling up and the kitchen will smell, nutty, buttery, and oh so delicious. Almost like Thanksgiving, because these really do remind me of pecan pie.
I of course love to eat these warm, right off the pan, with a sprinkle of sea salt atop. And oh my gosh, every last bite is delicious. It’s truly hard to beat a good chocolate chip cookie, but these certainly give the others a little run for their money They would be so fun for the Derby…but also any other day of the year. It’s the crinkly edges, deep bourbon-vanilla flavor, and pockets of melted chocolate. DELICIOUS! Happy Friday guys, enjoy!
Looking for a few other fun cookie ideas? Try these… Lavender Lemon Sugar Cookies Healthier Homemade Nutter Butter Cookies Snickerdoodle Peanut Butter Chocolate Chex Mix Bars Lastly, if you make these Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you guys and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made is my favorite!
