Pecan Pie Cookies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Dough Base

01 - 1 cup packed light brown sugar
02 - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
06 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
07 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

→ Rich Pecan Filling

08 - 1 cup finely chopped toasted pecans
09 - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
10 - 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
11 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
12 - Flaky sea salt for finishing

→ Bourbon Drizzle

13 - 1 cup confectioners' sugar, sifted
14 - 2 tablespoons good-quality bourbon whiskey
15 - 1 tablespoon heavy cream

# Instructions:

01 - Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually mix into the butter mixture until just combined.
02 - Roll the dough into 1¼-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on unlined baking sheets. Lightly spray the back of a rounded teaspoon with cooking spray, then gently press into each ball to create a small well for the filling.
03 - Place the shaped cookies in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to firm up. This prevents spreading and helps maintain the indented shape during baking.
04 - Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Stir together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla to create a rich, sticky filling mixture.
05 - Spoon about one teaspoon of the pecan mixture into each cookie's indentation. Lightly sprinkle with sea salt, then bake for 8-12 minutes until the edges are set and lightly golden.
06 - Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Whisk together powdered sugar, bourbon, and cream until smooth. Drizzle over completely cooled cookies and allow the glaze to set before storing.

# Notes:

01 - These delightful cookies capture all the flavors of classic pecan pie in a handheld treat perfect for holiday gatherings.
02 - The bourbon glaze adds a sophisticated touch, but can be replaced with milk or cream for a family-friendly version.
03 - Store between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container for up to one week.