There’s something utterly irresistible about the combination of rich chocolate and the crunch of pecans, especially when it comes together in the form of freshly baked cookies. As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of melted cocoa filled the air, creating a sweet pathway to my childhood memories. These Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies have quickly become my go-to treat, not just for their decadent flavor but for their delightful twist of white chocolate and nutty pecans.
Whether you’re gearing up for a cozy night in or looking to impress guests at a gathering, these cookies strike the perfect balance between indulgence and comfort. And the best part? They only take about 55 minutes from start to finish, making them an easy yet impressive addition to any dessert table. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into baking these delightful morsels that are bound to bring smiles to everyone around the table!
Why are Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies a must-try?
Indulgent flavor: The luscious blend of dark cocoa and creamy white chocolate offers a taste that is both decadent and delightful.
Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of any skill level, ensuring a rewarding experience in the kitchen.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for parties or potlucks, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.
Nutty texture: The addition of pecans provides a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft, chocolatey dough.
Quick preparation: In under an hour, you can whip up a batch of cookies that are truly irresistible, making them a perfect last-minute treat.
Baking has never been this enjoyable; let these Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies be your next delicious creation!
Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies Ingredients
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For the Dough:
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – use a spoon to measure for accuracy
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – opt for high-quality for richer flavor
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps cookies rise perfectly
• 1 teaspoon salt – enhances overall flavor
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter – room temperature for easier mixing
• 1 cup granulated sugar – sweetens the dough
• 2/3 cup brown sugar – adds moisture and depth
• 2 large eggs – binds ingredients together
• 1 teaspoon vanilla – enhances flavor profile -
For the Mix-Ins:
• 1 package (10 oz) white chocolate chips – for a creamy contrast
• 3/4 cup chopped pecans – provides a delightful crunch to these Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies
How to Make Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies
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Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until fully mixed. This creates the base for your delicious cookie dough.
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Cream butter and sugars: In a medium-sized bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla extract; mix until smooth and well incorporated.
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Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gently add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender and soft.
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Fold in deliciousness: Carefully fold in the white chocolate chips and chopped pecans. These ingredients will add delightful textures and flavors to your Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies.
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Chill the dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for 30 minutes to help it firm up. This step prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
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Prepare to bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
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Shape the cookies: Roll or scoop the chilled dough into 1-inch balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball slightly using the palm of your hand for even baking.
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Bake to perfection: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies are cracked. Let them cool for 4-5 minutes on the sheets before transferring to a cooling rack.
Optional: Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt before serving for a gourmet touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it according to the recipe, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. This helps enhance the flavors while preventing the dough from spreading too much during baking. Alternatively, roll the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months—just bake them directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. When you’re ready to indulge, simply bake the refrigerated or frozen cookie dough, and you’ll have warm, delicious cookies ready in no time, making busy weeknights much sweeter!
What to Serve with Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies?
Indulging in these rich, chocolaty delights is a treat in itself, but enhancing the experience with perfect pairings takes it to a whole new level.
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Cold Milk: A classic pairing that never goes out of style, cold milk beautifully balances the rich flavors of chocolate while adding creaminess.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies warm alongside a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream. The contrast in temperatures will elevate this dessert to heavenly heights.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or tart raspberries add a fresh burst of flavor that beautifully cuts through the richness of the cookies.
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Coffee or Espresso: A bold cup of coffee or a shot of espresso complements the deep chocolate notes, making for a delightful afternoon treat.
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For a decadent twist, drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cookies. A chocolate lover’s dream come true!
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings lightness and a touch of sweetness to your cookie experience.
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Nutty Hot Chocolate: Pair with a comforting cup of nutty hot chocolate to accentuate the pecan flavors and create warmth on a chilly day.
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Chai Latte: This spiced tea will introduce a lovely warmth and unique flavor, adding excitement to every bite of the cookies.
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Fruit Sorbet: A refreshing fruit sorbet can cleanse the palate, providing a delightful contrast to the cookie’s richness.
These pairings will enhance every bite of your decadent Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies, ensuring a delightful experience each time!
How to Store and Freeze Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and softness.
Fridge: If you live in a warm climate, store the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure they are sealed well to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm treat, reheat frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies
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Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder and butter for richer flavor. This will elevate your Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies to a new level.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, even when they’re meant to be soft and chewy.
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes is essential. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, avoiding needless spreading.
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Check for Doneness: Bake just until the tops crack, about 10 minutes. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so keep an eye on them in the oven!
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Store Wisely: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for days, perfect for a quick sweet fix anytime!
Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore your creativity and make these cookies uniquely yours!
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Nut-Free: Substitute pecans with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely for a delightful, allergy-friendly option.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free treat that doesn’t compromise on taste.
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Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips instead of white for a richer flavor profile that chocoholics will adore.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough for a surprising heat that complements the chocolate beautifully.
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Dried Fruits: Incorporate dried cherries or cranberries to add a touch of tartness that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
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Zesty Infusion: Mix in the zest of one orange or lemon for a citrusy twist that brightens the deep chocolate flavor.
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Coconut Flakes: Toss in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical texture and flavor contrast against the rich cocoa.
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Brown Butter: For a nutty flavor boost, brown the butter before mixing it with sugars. This simple step elevates the cookie’s taste to a new level!
Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cocoa powder for Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, I recommend opting for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder, such as Dutch-processed. This type enhances the chocolate’s depth and gives your cookies a dark, luscious color.
How long can I store Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies at room temperature?
You can keep these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay fresh and soft, perfect for those mid-afternoon cravings!
Can I freeze Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies for later?
Yes, indeed! To freeze the cookies, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once solid, transfer them into a zip-top bag or an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months!
What if my Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies turn out too dry or crumbly?
Very! If your cookies come out dry, ensure that you’re measuring your flour correctly; spooning and leveling it off is crucial. Additionally, don’t overbake! Pay attention to the baking time, and aim for those lovely cracked tops to signal they’re done.
Are these Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies safe for pets?
No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets, as chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats. Always store any leftovers securely and out of reach of our furry friends!
What should I do if I’m allergic to nuts, but I want to make this recipe?
Great question! You can simply omit the chopped pecans from the recipe. To add a different kind of crunch, I often suggest using sunflower seeds or rolled oats instead, which will still give your cookies a delightful texture without the nut allergy concerns.
Indulgent Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies for Your Sweet Tooth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, stir together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until fully mixed.
- In a medium-sized bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla extract; mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Gently add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until everything is just combined.
- Carefully fold in the white chocolate chips and chopped pecans.
- Refrigerate the cookie dough for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll or scoop the chilled dough into 1-inch balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies are cracked.
- Let them cool for 4-5 minutes on the sheets before transferring to a cooling rack.
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