Butternut Cookies are the highlight of the Christmas season for many, including myself. These butterscotch-laden cookies have been a staple on my baking list year after year, delighting friends and family alike with their unique flavor and delightful crunch. Simple yet incredibly satisfying, Butternut Cookies possess that old-world charm reminiscent of long-held family traditions and joyous holiday festivities.
I first stumbled upon this recipe from a family friend who swore by its simplicity and exceptional taste. Every holiday season, I find myself eagerly pulling out the old recipe card, worn yet cherished, and as each batch comes out of the oven, perfectly golden, I am reminded of the warm, festive evenings spent with loved ones, sharing stories over freshly baked cookies.
Why You’ll Love This Butternut Cookies Recipe
– Simplicity: With minimal prep time and basic ingredients, this recipe is both easy to make and requires little effort.
– Flavorful: The combination of butterscotch chips and pecans lends these cookies a rich, nutty flavor that is hard to resist.
– Crowd Pleaser: These cookies are consistently a hit at gatherings, making them perfect for any event, especially during the holidays.
– Customizable: Easy to tweak with different nuts or toppings, this recipe can be tailored to suit your tastes or use whatever you have on hand.
Ingredient Notes
– Butter: Use unsalted butter that is room temperature to ensure the dough has the right consistency.
– Powdered Sugar: Sift your powdered sugar to avoid lumps for a smooth texture in the cookie dough and the glaze.
– Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the flavors of the cookies.
– All-purpose Flour: Standard all-purpose flour works best for these cookies, providing them with their characteristic crumb.
– Butterscotch Chips: These add a deliciously sweet and buttery flavor that is key to the cookies’ taste.
– Pecans: Finely chopped for texture and flavor; you can substitute with walnuts if preferred.
How to Make Butternut Cookies Recipe
– Step 1: Cream the Base
Begin by creaming together the butter, powdered sugar, and salt until light and fluffy. This aerates the mixture, providing the foundation of your cookies.
– Step 2: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually blend in the flour until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
– Step 3: Add the Crunch
Stir in the butterscotch chips and chopped pecans by hand, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
– Step 4: Form the Cookies
Shape the dough into small balls and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet about an inch apart.
– Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F for 15-20 minutes or until the cookies are firm yet not brown. Allow them to cool on wire racks.
– Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
For the rum glaze, mix the powdered sugar with rum extract and milk until smooth. You can opt to either dip the cookies into the glaze or spoon it over them.
– Step 7: Add the Final Touch
Sprinkle with chopped pecans and allow the glaze to set, finishing off your Butternuts beautifully.
Storage Options
Butternuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the unglazed cookies for up to three months and add the glaze after thawing.
Variations and Substitutions
– Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if desired.
– Use white chocolate chips instead of butterscotch for a different twist.
– Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra spice.
– Vegan or dietary restrictions? Use plant-based butter and gluten-free flour.
What to Serve With Butternut Cookies
– A warm cup of mulled wine or cider.
– Rich, hot chocolate complements the sweetness of the cookies.
– Serve along with other holiday treats like gingerbread or sugar cookies for a festive platter.
– Enjoy after a light meal, letting the cookies be the highlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I make Butternuts ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough and shape the cookies, then refrigerate overnight. Bake as needed.
– How do I ensure my cookies are the perfect texture?
Avoid overbaking; remove from the oven when they are just firm to the touch.
– Can the dough be frozen?
Yes, freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
– What’s the best way to apply the glaze?
Dipping the cookies in glaze provides an even coating, but drizzling can be quicker with less mess.
Enjoy crafting these delightful Butternut Cookies, filling your home with their enticing aroma and creating memories that linger warmly long after the last cookie has been savored. With their crunchy texture, nuanced flavor, and festive appearance, they promise not only to satisfy sweet cravings but also to add sparkle to your holiday celebrations.
Classic Butternuts Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar sifted
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1/2 cup pecans finely chopped
- rum extract
- 1 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Cream together butter, powdered sugar, and salt until fluffy.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in butterscotch chips and chopped pecans.
- Shape dough into balls and place on a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 325°F for 15-20 minutes until firm but not browned.
- Mix powdered sugar with rum extract and milk to make a glaze.
- Glaze cookies and sprinkle with pecans. Allow to set before serving.