Irresistibly Crinkly Butterscotch Pecan Cookies: Your Ultimate Homemade Recipe Guide
There’s something truly special about a homemade cookie, and these Crinkly Butterscotch Pecan Cookies are no exception. For years, this recipe has been a staple in my kitchen, bringing warmth and deliciousness with every batch. What started as a simple way to use up leftover butter-flavored shortening and a bag of butterscotch morsels has evolved into a beloved tradition. Nowadays, these are ingredients I purposefully seek out, knowing the delightful results they produce. The unique combination of sweet butterscotch, earthy pecans, and that signature crinkly texture makes these cookies truly unforgettable, perfect for any occasion or simply as a comforting treat.
These cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re also a fantastic way to celebrate seasonal ingredients. Pecans, in particular, shine in this recipe. While I’ve always leaned on the robust flavor of Texas pecans, I recently discovered the delightful quality of a specific brand from the South Georgia Pecan Company at Publix, and I’ve become quite partial to them. Their freshness and rich taste elevate these butterscotch pecan cookies to another level. When pecans are in season, there’s no better time to whip up a batch of these glorious crinkly cookies. The slight crunch of the nuts perfectly complements the soft, chewy interior and the sweet burst of butterscotch.
Choosing Your Shortening: Butter-Flavored or Regular Crisco?
One of the intriguing elements of this butterscotch pecan cookie recipe is the shortening. You have the flexibility to use either regular Crisco or butter-flavored Crisco. My initial use of the butter-flavored variety was simply to clear out my pantry, but I quickly realized its wonderful contribution to the cookies. While I generally don’t gravitate towards artificial butter flavorings, in this specific recipe, it integrates seamlessly without overpowering the natural flavors of the butterscotch chips and pecans. The butter-flavored Crisco enhances the overall richness, adding a subtle depth that makes these crinkly cookies extra special. If you opt for regular shortening, your cookies will still be delicious, offering a slightly more neutral canvas for the butterscotch and pecan notes to stand out. Experimentation is key to finding your preferred balance!
The Star Sweetener: Selecting the Best Butterscotch Chips
The other indispensable ingredient in these delightful pecan butterscotch cookies is, of course, a good bag of butterscotch morsels (also known as butterscotch chips). Over the years, I’ve tried several brands to find the perfect match for this recipe. Initially, Nestle was my go-to choice, offering a classic and reliable flavor. However, during one of my baking adventures, I stumbled upon Hershey’s butterscotch flavored morsels and found them to be even more appealing. They provided a slightly different, perhaps richer, profile that truly elevated the cookies. On the other hand, I haven’t been as impressed with Aldi’s butterscotch morsels, finding their flavor a bit lacking for these particular cookies. I’m still on the hunt to try Guittard’s, which I’ve only ever seen available online, usually on Amazon. The quality of your butterscotch chips can significantly impact the final flavor, so don’t be afraid to try different brands until you find your favorite!
The Secret to Those Signature Crinkles
The “crinkly” in Crinkly Butterscotch Pecan Cookies isn’t just a charming descriptor; it’s a defining characteristic that adds visual appeal and a delightful textural contrast. Achieving these beautiful wrinkles involves a few key steps and a bit of kitchen magic. The combination of cold butter and shortening, along with the chilling of the dough, plays a crucial role. When the cold dough hits the warm oven, the exterior sets quickly, while the interior continues to spread, creating those lovely folds and crinkles. Furthermore, a gentle nudge with a spatula right after they come out of the oven can enhance these wrinkles, shaping them into perfect circles and making them even more visually appealing. This simple trick makes all the difference in achieving that signature look, turning a delicious cookie into a truly gourmet treat.
Tips for Perfect Butterscotch Pecan Cookies Every Time
Baking is both an art and a science, and a few simple tips can ensure your homemade butterscotch pecan cookies turn out perfectly every time. First, ensure your ingredients are measured accurately. Baking soda and salt are crucial for both leavening and flavor balance. Using cold butter and shortening as specified helps create the desired texture and spread. Don’t skip the dough chilling step; it’s essential for preventing excessive spreading and encouraging those lovely crinkles. When adding the butterscotch chips and pecans, mix them in by hand to avoid overworking the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want tender, chewy ones! Finally, oven temperature can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies. They should be just lightly browned around the edges, as they will continue to set as they cool. Investing in an oven thermometer can help ensure accuracy.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
While these crinkly butterscotch pecan cookies are fantastic as is, feel free to get creative with variations! You could try adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for an extra layer of warmth. For an even more decadent treat, swap out half of the butterscotch chips for white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks. If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or even a mix of different nuts would work wonderfully. These cookies are perfect served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or simply enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. They also make a fantastic gift for friends and family, packaged in a lovely cookie tin. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their freshness.
Discover More Delicious Recipes Featuring Butterscotch or Crisco
If you’ve fallen in love with the flavors of butterscotch and the magic of Crisco in baking, there are plenty more recipes to explore. These ingredients are incredibly versatile and can create a wide range of delectable desserts. From classic chocolate chip cookies elevated by shortening to rich butterscotch bars, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few more recipes to inspire your next baking adventure:
- Crisco Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Peanut Butterscotch Cookies
- Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars
- Rangers (Butterscotch and Oat Bars)
- Butterscotch Pudding Cookies with Toasted Pecans
- Butterscotch Oat Bars with Toasted Pecans
Each of these recipes highlights the unique characteristics that butterscotch and shortening bring to baked goods. Whether you’re craving a classic or something new, these options provide a great starting point for expanding your baking repertoire.
Recipe: How to Make Crinkly Butterscotch Pecan Cookies
Crinkly Butterscotch Pecan Cookies
Anna
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (220 grams)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into chunks (114 grams)
- ½ cup shortening (96 grams)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
- ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar (100 grams)
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 ¾ cups butterscotch chips
- ⅔ cup pecans toasted and chopped
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the cold butter and shortening together until the mixture is light and creamy. Add both the granulated sugar and the firmly packed brown sugar, continuing to beat for another two minutes until well combined and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract. Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated. Add the large egg and beat for about 30 seconds, or until the egg is fully incorporated into the mixture.
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Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring by hand until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough will be quite thick. Fold in the butterscotch chips and the toasted, chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough. Once mixed, cover the bowl and chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until you are ready to bake. Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and enhances the crinkly texture.
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Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
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Scoop the chilled dough using generously rounded tablespoons. Roll each scoop into a large, smooth ball. Place the cookie dough balls about 3 inches apart on the prepared cookie sheets to allow for spreading. Bake one sheet at a time for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly browned. The centers may still look a little soft, but if the edges are visibly browned, they are likely done. My batch typically bakes for 15 minutes to achieve the perfect texture.
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Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, use the edge of a spatula to gently nudge and shape them into neat, circular forms if they’ve spread unevenly. This technique not only makes them aesthetically pleasing but also enhances the development of those characteristic wrinkles and folds in the cookies.
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Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for approximately 3 minutes. This crucial step allows them to firm up slightly before you attempt to move them. After 3 minutes, carefully transfer the warm cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
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This recipe yields approximately 28 delicious Crinkly Butterscotch Pecan Cookies, perfect for sharing or enjoying over several days!
These Crinkly Butterscotch Pecan Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a testament to the joy of homemade baking. With their delightful texture, rich flavor, and satisfying crunch, they’re sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to brighten an ordinary day, these cookies offer a perfect balance of sweetness and nutty goodness. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try, and prepare to fall in love with these irresistible treats!