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Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Decadent Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies

These Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a cozy treat with toasted pecans and chocolate, perfect for holiday baking.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 27 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Cookies
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1 cup Pecan Halves Adds crunch and rich flavor; substitute with walnuts if desired.
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Creates a rich texture; must be browned for best results.
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Provides structure; best not to substitute unless using a gluten-free blend.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor; sea salt or kosher salt can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Adds warmth; may substitute with nutmeg for a different 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.
  • 1 cup Dark Brown Sugar Adds moisture and flavor; can substitute with light brown sugar.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Balances sweetness; consider coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Provides aromatic flavor; imitation vanilla works in a pinch.
  • 1/4 cup Bourbon Introduces a complex flavor profile; may omit for non-alcoholic version.
  • 2 large Eggs Contributes moisture; ensure they are at room temperature.
  • 1 cup Semi-Sweet/Dark Chocolate Adds richness; swap with milk chocolate for sweetness or leave out for a simpler cookie.
For Decoration
  • 1/2 cup Pecan Halves (for decoration) Optional element to elevate presentation.
  • to taste Flaky Sea Salt Enhances sweetness; can be omitted if desired.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Saucepan
  • Parchment Paper
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter, then add chopped pecans. Toast for about 4–5 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a saucepan, melt more unsalted butter over medium heat, swirling until it turns a deep amber color with a nutty aroma, about 5–7 minutes. Cool slightly.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
  4. Add brown and granulated sugars to the browned butter, mix together, then incorporate the vanilla extract, bourbon, and eggs one at a time.
  5. Fold the dry mixture into the wet batter until just combined. Add chocolate chunks and toasted pecans, stir gently.
  6. Cover the cookie dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or 30–45 minutes if short on time.
  7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop portions of the chilled dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets and press pecan halves on top.
  8. Bake for about 12 minutes until golden brown around the edges. Let cool on the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a rack.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookieCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 400IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Ensure the butter is browned carefully to avoid burning, and make sure to chill the dough to prevent spreading.

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