Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe

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Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavors of brown butter with the sweetness of chocolate and the crunch of pecans. These cookies, featuring caramelized butter and toasted pecans, offer a gourmet twist to traditional recipes. The aroma of baking cookies fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for sharing with family and friends. Let’s explore the magic of these cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan

This recipe brings together a medley of flavors that are hard to resist. Here are several reasons to love these cookies:

Rich and nutty flavor from the brown butter.
Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch.
Generous chocolate chunks create a gooey texture.
Infused with bourbon for a sophisticated kick.
Perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness.
Easy to follow, making it a great choice for bakers of all levels.
A versatile recipe that can be adapted into Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Brownies or Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Ice Cream.
Enjoy as a snack or dessert that fits any occasion.

Ingredients for Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan

Gather these items:

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

How to Make Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add chopped pecans; cook for 4 to 5 minutes until lightly toasted, then set aside.
Step 2: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, swirling occasionally until it turns a rich amber color and smells nutty; then remove from heat and pour into a mixing bowl.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder, then set aside.
Step 4: With an electric mixer, combine melted browned butter and both sugars, beating on medium speed for about 1 minute.
Step 5: Add vanilla and bourbon, mixing until combined.
Step 6: Add eggs one at a time, beating for 15 seconds after each addition.
Step 7: Gently fold in the flour mixture until just combined, then fold in chocolate chunks and buttered pecans.
Step 8: Cover and refrigerate the dough for 4 hours.
Step 9: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 10: Using a large cookie scoop, form 3-tablespoon sized balls and place them on the prepared sheets, spacing them 3 inches apart.
Step 11: Press a pecan half onto each ball and bake for 12 minutes until golden brown, pressing any edges back in if they spread.
Step 12: After baking, press extra chocolate chunks and pecan pieces on top, sprinkle with sea salt, and allow to cool for 15 minutes before transferring to a rack.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan

Keep these in mind:

Chilling the dough is crucial for best results.
Use high-quality chocolate for rich flavor.
Store cookies in an airtight container.
Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for enhanced flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan

Enjoy these cookies warm with a glass of milk, or pair them with a scoop of homemade Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Ice Cream. Serve them at parties or as a sweet treat after dinner.

How to Store and Reheat Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their gooey texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan

What’s the secret to perfect Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan?

The key to perfect cookies lies in the browning of the butter and the proper chilling of the dough. This enhances the flavor and texture, ensuring a rich taste with every bite.

Can I make Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for an even tastier cookie.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan?

To avoid spreading cookies, ensure your butter isn’t too hot when mixing. Also, chilling the dough is essential to maintain shape during baking.

Variations of Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different variations such as Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Brownies or Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Tarts. You can also try adding different types of chocolate or other nuts for a unique flavor twist.