Pecan Pie Cookie Bites are like little pieces of heaven! These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with yummy pecans. They have that sweet flavor of traditional pecan pie, but in a fun, bite-sized treat!
Trust me, once you start popping these in your mouth, it’s hard to stop! 😋 I love having them with a warm cup of coffee for the perfect snack. They’re super easy to make, too—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of your cookie crust. For a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I’ve tried it before, and the texture remains lovely!
Pecans: These give the cookie bites their signature crunch and flavor. If you’re nut-free, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar texture, though the flavor will differ.
Corn Syrup: This helps bind the filling and adds sweetness. If you’re looking for a substitute, try using maple syrup or agave syrup for a different flavor profile, but the filling may be slightly thinner.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling salt levels. You can also use coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version. I personally love how coconut oil adds a hint of richness!
How Do You Achieve a Perfect Cookie Crust?
Creating a nice, sturdy crust is key to keeping the filling intact. Here are tips to get it just right:
- Chill the Dough: After mixing, chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to shape without falling apart.
- Press Evenly: When pressing the dough into the muffin tin, make sure it’s even in thickness so it bakes uniformly.
- Form a Cup Shape: Aim for a slight rim that helps hold the filling without overflowing.
These steps will ensure your cookie bites have a deliciously crisp and supportive base for all that gooey filling!
Pecan Pie Cookie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Pie Filling:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
Getting these tasty Pecan Pie Cookie Bites ready will take you about 30 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-18 minutes for baking. Make sure to chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes! So, about an hour total including cooking time—perfect for a delightful afternoon treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix everything together with a fork or your hands until the dough forms and is smooth. If the dough seems too dry, add just a tablespoon of cold water. Once done, wrap it in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Oven:
While your dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin pan or mini tart pan to prevent sticking. This step is very important!
3. Form the Cookie Crusts:
Once the dough is chilled, take small portions—about 1 teaspoon—and press them evenly into each cavity of the mini muffin pan, creating little cups with a slightly raised edge. Take your time to ensure they are evenly shaped!
4. Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, egg, remaining 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth. After that, stir in the chopped pecans until well mixed.
5. Fill the Cookie Cups:
Gently spoon the pecan filling into each cookie crust cup, filling them almost to the top but avoiding overfilling for a mess-free bake.
6. Bake:
Place the filled cookie bites in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the crusts are golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once done baking, remove the cookie bites from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer the bites to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve them as a delightful snack or dessert and enjoy the deliciousness!
These Pecan Pie Cookie Bites are sure to delight everyone with their rich, nutty flavors, giving you all the taste of pecan pie in a charming, bite-sized form!
Can I Use Different Nuts Instead of Pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans give that classic flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds for a different taste and texture. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces for even distribution in the filling.
Can I Make These Cookie Bites Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Just replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture and structure.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cookie bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds!
Can I Freeze the Cookie Bites?
Yes, these cookie bites freeze well! To freeze, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw by leaving them at room temperature for a bit before enjoying!
