Why You’ll Love this Great American Cookie Pecan Cookies Recipe
If you’ve ever bitten into a cookie that perfectly balances crunch and chewiness, you’ll absolutely love this Great American Cookie Pecan Cookies recipe.
These cookies are a delightful mix of texture and flavor, with the pecans adding a rich, nutty taste that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the brown sugar. The crushed cornflakes bring an unexpected crunch, making each bite an adventure.
I can’t get enough of how they come out of the oven, warm and inviting, begging to be enjoyed with a glass of milk. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Trust me, once you try these cookies, you’ll want to keep the recipe close at hand!
Ingredients of Great American Cookie Pecan Cookies
When it comes to baking cookies, the ingredients are just as important as the technique, right? Well, that’s definitely true for these Great American Cookie Pecan Cookies.
With a delightful combination of pecans and crunchy cornflakes, this recipe is sure to make your kitchen smell heavenly. Plus, who can resist the allure of freshly baked cookies? Gather those ingredients, and let’s prepare for a baking adventure that will have your taste buds dancing.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these scrumptious cookies:
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 1 1/3 cups light brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 cup corn flakes, crushed
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
Now, let’s chat about the ingredients a bit. First off, if you don’t have self-rising flour, you could easily make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with baking powder and a pinch of salt.
This cookie dough is super forgiving, so feel free to adjust the amount of pecans or add a sprinkle of chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous. And the shortening? It’s what helps give these cookies that delightful texture that’s a bit chewy but still has a nice crunch.
Just remember, whether you’re using fresh pecans or the last bag you found in the back of your pantry, the heart of these cookies is all about that rich, nutty flavor.
How to Make Great American Cookie Pecan Cookies
Alright, let’s plunge into the delicious world of Great American Cookie Pecan Cookies. First things first, grab your mixing bowl and let’s get that 1/2 cup of shortening nice and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or just a good old-fashioned wooden spoon—sometimes, I like to pretend I’m a professional baker just to feel fancy.
Once the shortening is creamy, add in 1 1/3 cups of light brown sugar, two eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix it all together until it’s a smooth, sweet-smelling concoction that makes you want to plunge right in. But hold your horses; we’re not there yet.
Now, it’s time to incorporate the dry ingredients. Measure out 1 1/2 cups of self-rising flour and gently fold it into your wet mixture. This is where the magic happens, so don’t rush—let those ingredients mingle.
Next, toss in 1 cup of crushed corn flakes and 1 1/2 cups of chopped pecans. Stir it all up until it’s well mixed, and you can see those lovely bits of pecans and crunchy flakes throughout the dough. I’ve to admit, the dough might look a little chunky, but that’s just part of its charm.
Once your dough is ready, roll it into 2-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to give them some space, because they’ll spread a little while baking.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and pop those beauties in for about 9 to 11 minutes. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be enough to make you weak in the knees. As they bake, keep an eye on them; you want them to be golden brown but not overdone.
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool on a wire rack. And trust me, the wait will be worth it—crunchy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and that nutty flavor? Pure bliss.
Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to sneak a taste or two of the dough—it’s practically a rite of passage in baking.
Great American Cookie Pecan Cookies Substitutions & Variations
While the original Great American Cookie Pecan Cookies recipe is a delightful treat on its own, there’s always room to get creative with substitutions and variations.
For instance, if you don’t have shortening, butter works just as well and adds a richer flavor. You can swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you’re looking for a different nutty taste.
If you want a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour. For a fun twist, try adding chocolate chips or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.
You can also experiment with different extracts, like almond or maple, to give your cookies a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, so let your imagination run wild!
What to Serve with Great American Cookie Pecan Cookies
If you’re looking to elevate your Great American Cookie Pecan Cookies experience, consider pairing them with a warm beverage like coffee or tea.
The rich flavors of the cookies blend beautifully with the aromatic notes of a freshly brewed cup.
For a more indulgent treat, I love serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
You might also try offering them with a glass of cold milk, which perfectly complements the sweetness and crunch of the cookies.
For a festive touch, serve them on a platter with a variety of seasonal treats.
This way, you can create a cozy atmosphere that invites sharing and enjoyment with friends and family!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Pecan Cornflake Cookies turn out perfectly, I recommend measuring your ingredients carefully and using room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
Don’t skip the step of crushing the cornflakes; it creates a delightful texture. Also, consider toasting your pecans lightly before mixing them in. This enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch.
If you prefer softer cookies, take them out of the oven when they’re slightly underbaked; they’ll continue cooking on the baking sheet.
Make sure to let the cookies cool on a wire rack, as this helps them maintain their shape.
Finally, store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Enjoy your baking adventure!