Name: Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 367 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups Pecan Halves (Adds delightful crunch and depth; substitute with walnuts for a different flavor profile.); 2 sticks Unsalted Butter (Creates richness and moisture; browning enhances the nuttiness of the cookies.); 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (Provides structure for the cookies to hold together perfectly.); 1 tsp Salt (Elevates overall flavor; reduce to ½ tsp for a lower sodium option.); 0.5 tsp Ground Cinnamon (Imparts a warm, spicy note; optional but highly recommended for extra coziness.); 0.5 tsp Baking Soda (Essential leavening agent that helps create a tender cookie texture.); 1 tsp Baking Powder (Essential leavening agent that helps create a tender cookie texture.); 1 cup Dark Brown Sugar (Adds moisture and a deep, rich flavor; swap with light brown sugar for a milder taste.); 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the dough and aids in cookies' lovely texture.); 2 tsp Vanilla Extract (Boosts the cookie’s overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for best results.); 3 tbsp Bourbon (Brings a delightful depth of flavor; can be omitted for a non-alcoholic treat, but it’s a key ingredient.); 2 large Eggs (Binds everything together, ensuring a chewy and satisfying texture; should be at room temperature.); 8 oz Semi-Sweet or Dark Chocolate (Adds luxurious richness; you can choose milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor.); 24 pieces Pecan Halves (Optional for decoration.); 1 tbsp Flaky Sea Salt (Offers a beautiful finish and a perfect sweet-salty contrast to each bite.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

“Hold up, have you ever tasted a cookie that practically hugs your taste buds?” That’s how I felt when I first bit into these Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies. The combination of toasted pecans, rich chocolate, and the warm, nutty essence of browned butter creates a magical experience that’s both comforting and indulgent. These cookies aren’t just another treat; they offer a unique twist that makes them perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in. Plus, they come together quickly, making them an easy go-to for any occasion. Feeling curious about how to whip up this boozy delight? Let’s dive in!

da72eb55 55e9 4d91 a88b 871b7685c76ctr uz7ouj

Why are these cookies irresistible?

Unforgettable Flavor: The warm essence of brown butter and the vibrant splash of bourbon offer a luxurious depth that transports your taste buds.

Quick & Easy: With just a few steps, you can create these gourmet cookies that are sure to impress your guests. Perfect for holiday celebrations or a cozy evening.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re entertaining friends or treating yourself, these cookies are set to become the star of the dessert table. Pair them with a glass of milk or a steaming cup of coffee for the ultimate experience!

Versatile Options: Want to experiment? Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or even throw in some white chocolate chunks for a delicious twist. Enjoy making them again and again!

Ready to embark on a delightful baking adventure with these exceptional cookies? Be sure to check out my Browned Butter Cookies for another crowd favorite!

Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Pecan Halves (1 ½ cups) – Adds delightful crunch and depth; substitute with walnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Unsalted Butter (2 sticks + 1 ½ tbsp) – Creates richness and moisture; browning enhances the nuttiness of the cookies.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 ½ cups) – Provides structure for the cookies to hold together perfectly.
• Salt (1 tsp) – Elevates overall flavor; reduce to ½ tsp for a lower sodium option.
• Ground Cinnamon (½ tsp) – Imparts a warm, spicy note; optional but highly recommended for extra coziness.
• Baking Soda (½ tsp) & Baking Powder (1 tsp) – Essential leavening agents that help create a tender cookie texture.
• Dark Brown Sugar (1 cup) – Adds moisture and a deep, rich flavor; swap with light brown sugar for a milder taste.
• Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the dough and aids in cookies’ lovely texture.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Boosts the cookie’s overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for best results.
• Bourbon (3 tbsp) – Brings a delightful depth of flavor; can be omitted for a non-alcoholic treat, but it’s a key ingredient.
• Large Eggs (2) – Binds everything together, ensuring a chewy and satisfying texture; should be at room temperature.
• Semi-Sweet or Dark Chocolate (8 oz) – Adds luxurious richness; you can choose milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor.

For Topping
• Pecan Halves (24, optional for decoration) – Makes each cookie visually appealing.
• Flaky Sea Salt (1 tbsp, optional) – Offers a beautiful finish and a perfect sweet-salty contrast to each bite.

Now that you have everything laid out, get ready to embrace your inner baker and create these unforgettable Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Buttered Pecans
Begin by melting 1 ½ tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the chopped pecans and toast them for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn lightly golden and fragrant. Set the toasted pecans aside on a plate to cool while you prepare the rest of the cookie dough.

Step 2: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 sticks of unsalted butter over medium heat. Swirl the melted butter occasionally as it cooks for about 5–7 minutes, until it develops an amber color and a nutty aroma. Be attentive to avoid burning; once browned, remove it from heat and pour it into a mixing bowl to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. This dry mixture is essential for the structure and texture of your Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies, so ensure everything is well combined and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Into the bowl with the slightly cooled brown butter, add 1 cup of dark brown sugar and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed until smooth and well incorporated. Next, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 3 tablespoons of bourbon, followed by the addition of 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to achieve a silky batter.

Step 5: Blend in Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold in the flour mixture to the wet ingredients using a spatula, mixing just until everything is combined. Take care not to overmix, as this can affect the texture. Now, gently stir in the 8 ounces of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chunks along with the toasted pecans, ensuring an even distribution throughout the cookie dough.

Step 6: Chill Dough
Cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for a minimum of 4 hours, or overnight if possible. Chilling the dough helps to firm it up, leading to cookies that maintain their shape and have a delightful texture as you bake them.

Step 7: Preheat Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures that your Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the baking surface, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 8: Form Cookies
Using a large cookie scoop, portion out dough balls that are about 3 tablespoons each. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced 3 inches apart to allow for spreading. For a finishing touch, gently press a pecan half onto the top of each dough ball to enhance both flavor and presentation.

Step 9: Bake
Slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake the cookies for approximately 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown around the edges with a slightly soft center. If any cookies spread too much, carefully reshape them using a spatula before letting them cool.

Step 10: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This step will ensure that your Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies reach the perfect chewy consistency and delightful flavor.

da72eb55 55e9 4d91 a88b 871b7685c76cbl aftqtn

Helpful Tricks for Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Cool the Butter Properly: Allow the brown butter to cool until it’s slightly warm but not solidified; this ensures proper mixing without curdling the eggs.

Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough for at least 4 hours. This crucial step prevents excessive spreading, garantindo a well-shaped cookie.

Measure Accurately: Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform sizing. This helps the Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture.

Watch the Browning: Keep an eye on the butter while browning. Aim for a deep amber color; over-browning can lead to a bitter taste, which you want to avoid.

Add Sea Salt: For a delightful contrast, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking. It enhances the sweet flavors and makes each bite pop!

What to Serve with Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies

These cookies are a warm hug for your taste buds, so let’s elevate your dessert experience with perfect pairings!

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm cookies, creating a delightful flavor combination.
Rich Hot Chocolate: A mug of rich hot cocoa helps accentuate the chocolate chunks inside the cookies, making every bite even more indulgent.
Smooth Bourbon Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce infused with bourbon over the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness and sophistication.
Freshly Brewed Coffee: The bold notes of coffee perfectly balance the sweet richness of the cookies, making it an ideal pairing for an afternoon treat.
Spicy Ginger Snap Cookies: Serve these alongside ginger snaps for a delightful textural contrast; the spices in the snaps complement the warm flavors of the pecan cookies.
Warm Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea seamlessly enhance the nutty flavors, offering a cozy pairing that warms the soul.
Pecan Pie: Keep the pecan theme alive by serving a slice of gooey pecan pie; the flavors together create a festive atmosphere reminiscent of holiday gatherings.

Indulging in these pairings will amplify your cookie enjoyment, turning a simple treat into a memorable dessert experience!

Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies Variations

Feel free to take these cookies in delightful new directions that suit your taste!

Nut Swap: Try using walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a unique flavor twist while still maintaining that lovely crunch. The change will provide a different yet satisfying texture.
Boozy-Free: If you’re accommodating kids or want a non-alcoholic treat, simply omit the bourbon and add an extra splash of vanilla extract. The cookies will still be deliciously decadent!
Sweetness Upgrade: Use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter, more dessert-like cookie. This variation imparts a delightful creaminess that complements the buttery notes beautifully.
Spiced Up: For an autumnal feel, include ½ teaspoon of nutmeg or 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the dough. This warms up the flavors and adds an inviting seasonal twist.
Texture Boost: Add ½ cup of rolled oats to the mix for a heartier cookie that boasts both crunch and chewiness. Oats will elevate the texture while keeping the cookies wonderfully delightful!
Stuffed Surprise: For an indulgent treat, stuff each dough ball with a chocolate truffle right before baking. The melty center will give you a surprise in every bite!
Chili Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter. The contrasting flavors of sweet and spicy will create an exciting flavor explosion.

Ready to infuse some variety into your baking adventures? Be sure to check out my Peanut Butter Brownie for another delightful and adaptable treat!

How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh and chewy for a delightful treat anytime!

Fridge: For extended freshness, keep cookies in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they’re in a well-sealed container to prevent moisture loss.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough balls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To enjoy leftover cookies warm, microwave for 10–15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Make Ahead Options

These Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness with minimal effort during busy times! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the resting instructions; simply cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For an even easier option, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls on a lined baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time to achieve those cookies’ signature golden edges. This way, you’ll have delicious, warm cookies ready in no time!

da72eb55 55e9 4d91 a88b 871b7685c76cbr mm2nvj

Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select pecans for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for pecans that are firm and crisp, free from any dark spots or moisture, as these indicate freshness. If you can, try to choose lightly toasted pecans to heighten that nutty flavor in your Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies.

How should I store my cookies to keep them fresh?
To maintain the deliciousness of your cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerating them in a sealed container will keep them fresh for about 2 weeks; just be sure they’re moisture-free!

Can I freeze the cookie dough, and if so, how?
Definitely! Freezing the unbaked cookie dough is a great idea. Here’s how to do it: scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet until firm (about 1-2 hours), then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop the dough balls in the oven—no need to thaw—adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very good question! If you find your cookies spreading excessively, it might be that the dough was too warm. Be sure to chill the dough like instructed. If they still spread, gently reshape them with a spatula right after baking to retain a beautiful cookie shape.

Are there any common allergies I should consider with this recipe?
Yes, indeed! Since this recipe includes nuts and gluten, it’s essential to be mindful of allergies. If serving to others, it’s wise to ask about allergies. You can also consider substitutions, like using oat flour for a gluten-free option, or replacing pecans with sunflower seeds for a nut-free treat. Always prioritize safety when it comes to dietary needs!

Can my pets have any of these ingredients?
Nope! Although many of the ingredients in your Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies are safe for humans, be cautious with sharing baked goods with pets. Chocolate and nuts can be toxic to dogs, so it’s always best to keep the joy of these cookies just for you and your loved ones.