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Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies Joy

These Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a delightful twist on a holiday favorite, combining rich flavors and chewy texture for an irresistible treat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 6 hours 7 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Dough
  • 1 cup Pecan Halves Adds crunch and rich flavor; substitute with walnuts if desired.
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Must be browned for best results; can substitute half with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Best not to substitute unless using a gluten-free blend.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor; sea salt or kosher salt can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon May substitute with nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda Aids leavening for a chewy cookie consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Ensures rise; should not be substituted for successful rising.
  • 0.75 cup Dark Brown Sugar Can substitute with light brown sugar.
  • 0.75 cup Granulated Sugar Consider coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Provides aromatic flavor; imitation vanilla works in a pinch.
  • 0.25 cup Bourbon May be omitted for a non-alcoholic version or substitute with whiskey.
  • 2 large Eggs Ensure they are at room temperature for even mixing.
  • 1.5 cups Semi-Sweet/Dark Chocolate Adds richness; swap with milk chocolate for a sweeter cookie or leave out for a simpler cookie.
For Decoration
  • 0.5 cup Pecan Halves (for decoration) Optional element to elevate presentation.
  • Flaky Sea Salt Enhances sweetness; can be omitted if desired.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Medium saucepan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Cookie scoop
  • Cooling Rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add 1 cup of pecan halves and toast for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat, swirling occasionally. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the butter turns a deep amber color and smells nutty. Be cautious not to burn it. Once browned, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Set this mixture aside.
  4. In a large bowl, combine ¾ cup of dark brown sugar with ¾ cup of granulated sugar. Add the cooled brown butter and mix until well combined. Incorporate 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
  5. Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet batter, ensuring no flour pockets remain. Once just combined, add 1 ½ cups of semi-sweet chocolate chunks and the toasted pecans, mixing lightly.
  6. Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to overnight.
  7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough, placing them 2 inches apart. Optionally, press additional pecan halves into the tops.
  8. Bake for 12 minutes or until edges are golden and centers appear slightly underbaked.
  9. Allow the cookies to cool on the pan for 15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookieCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Monitoring the butter closely while browning and ensuring room temperature eggs will enhance the texture and flavor of the cookies.

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