Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, is renowned for her heartwarming recipes that bring joy to any table. Among her many culinary triumphs, her pecan pie stands out as a true masterpiece. But what if we told you that this iconic pie could offer even more delight? Enter: Pioneer Woman Pecan Pie Cookies. By using the same luscious ingredients of her famous pie, you can create charming, bite-sized cookies that capture all the rich, nutty, and sweet flavors you adore. This recipe not only celebrates Ree’s original pecan pie but also elevates it with a fun, cookie twist, perfect for any occasion.
The Magic of Ree’s Pecan Pie (and Cookies!)
Let’s be honest, Ree Drummond’s “The Pie That’ll Make You Cry” pecan pie recipe is legendary for a reason. It’s a symphony of buttery, sugary, pecan goodness that’s simply irresistible. Instead of just stopping at the pie, we can take a cue from resourceful bakers everywhere and utilize every bit of deliciousness. That’s where the magic of pecan pie cookies comes in. Using leftover pie dough and the essence of the pecan pie filling, you can create delightful cookies that are just as crave-worthy as the pie itself. It’s like getting two treats in one!
Crafting the Perfect Pie Crust: Your Foundation for Success
The secret to exceptional pecan pie cookies, just like any great pie, starts with the crust. A flaky, buttery crust is the perfect complement to the sweet and nutty filling. For this, an all-butter pie crust is undeniably the way to go. While making pie crust might sound intimidating, it’s actually quite straightforward with the right recipe and a few key tips. The most crucial element is keeping everything cold – cold butter, cold water, and a cold kitchen if possible. This ensures that the butter remains in small pieces within the dough, creating those desirable flaky layers as it bakes.
rolled out pie dough
Preparing all-butter pie dough for Pioneer Woman pecan pie and cookies
Once your dough is prepared and chilled, the rolling process begins. Lightly flour your work surface, rolling pin, and hands to prevent sticking. Work quickly and handle the dough as little as possible to maintain its cold temperature. Roll the dough out to your desired thickness. For pie cookies, you can roll it slightly thinner than for a pie crust. Use cookie cutters in fun shapes to make your pecan pie cookies extra special. Don’t worry about scraps! These can be re-rolled (gently!) to create even more cookies. This resourceful approach ensures no delicious dough goes to waste and maximizes your cookie yield.
pie dough in a pie plate
Pie dough meets pie plate, ready for Pioneer Woman pecan pie cookies or pie
From Pie Filling to Cookie Dough: The Versatility of Pecan Goodness
Now for the heart of the matter: the pecan pie filling that transforms into cookie magic. Ree Drummond’s pecan pie filling recipe is a simple mix of eggs, butter, sugars, corn syrup, vanilla, and of course, pecans. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and nutty, with a rich, gooey texture that everyone loves. For the cookies, you’ll essentially be using a miniature version of this iconic filling.
sugar in a pecan pie recipe
Granulated sugar, a key ingredient in Pioneer Woman pecan pie cookies recipe
The beauty of these pecan pie cookies is their simplicity. You can use leftover pecan pie filling if you’ve just made a pie, or whip up a fresh batch specifically for the cookies. The process is incredibly easy: combine all the filling ingredients, ensuring the sugars are well dissolved. For cookies, you might want to chop the pecans slightly finer than you would for a pie, ensuring they distribute evenly in the smaller cookie format.
Baking Your Pecan Masterpieces: Pie and Cookies Together (and Separately)
Once your pie dough cookies are cut out and your pecan pie filling is ready, it’s time to bake. If you’re making both pie and cookies, you can certainly bake them concurrently, adjusting baking times as needed. For the pecan pie, pour the filling into your prepared pie crust. For the cookies, place your cut-out dough shapes onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Spoon a small amount of pecan pie filling onto the center of each cookie dough shape. Be careful not to overfill, as the filling will spread slightly as it bakes.
raw pecan pie filling
Uncooked pecan pie filling for Pioneer Woman pecan pie cookies recipe
Baking times will vary depending on your oven and the size of your cookies. Pecan pies typically take longer to bake than cookies. Start checking the cookies around 12-15 minutes. They are done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. Pecan pie is ready when the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly but isn’t soupy. Remember, carry-over baking will continue to set the filling as it cools.
raw pecan pie topped with pie cookies
Raw pecan pie adorned with pie cookies before baking, a Pioneer Woman style treat
Cooling, Setting, and Savoring: The Sweet Reward
Patience is key when it comes to pecan pie and cookies. Allow both the pie and the cookies to cool completely after baking. The pecan pie needs to set fully, and cooling, ideally overnight in the refrigerator, is essential for achieving the perfect texture. The cookies will also firm up as they cool, becoming delightfully chewy and flavorful.
homemade pecan pie
Perfectly baked Pioneer Woman pecan pie, a delicious centerpiece alongside pecan pie cookies
Once cooled, the reward is a symphony of flavors and textures. The rich, buttery pecan pie and the charming, sweet pecan pie cookies are ready to be savored. These Pioneer Woman Pecan Pie Cookies are more than just a treat; they are a testament to resourceful baking and the magic of transforming a beloved recipe into something new and equally delightful. Perfect for holiday gatherings, bake sales, or simply a special homemade treat, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite. Go ahead, give this recipe a try and experience the joy of Pioneer Woman pecan goodness in every bite!
