Hey there, cookie lovers!
The holiday season is just around the corner, and you know what that means—cookies galore!
Today, I’m excited to share a family favorite: Christmas cookies with nuts.
These treats are crunchy, nutty, and full of festive flavor.
Whether you’re baking for a party or just for fun, these cookies will spread some holiday cheer.
Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
| Preparation Time | 15-25 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 18 minutes |
| Total Time | 33-43 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Ingredients
- 1/8 to 1/4 tsp almond extract
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 stick unsalted butter (I like Kerrygold unsalted butter for this)
- 11 by 17 in baking pan
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (finely chopped for even distribution)
- Baker’s Joy non-stick baking spray
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup sugar
Step 1: Gather and Prepare Ingredients
Start by gathering the following ingredients: 1 stick of unsalted butter (softened at room temperature), 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of sugar, 1/4 heaping teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract (optional), and 1/4 cup of chopped pecans.
Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, flour, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and chopped pecans.
Use a sturdy spoon to stir the mixture until it forms a dough.
If necessary, use your hands to help bring the dough together for a more consistent texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Pan
Lightly spray an 11 by 17 inch baking pan with Baker’s Joy non-stick baking spray.
This will prevent the cookies from sticking to the pan and make cleanup easier.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when you are ready to bake.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Take a small amount of the cookie dough (about 1.1 ounces) and roll it into a ball in your palm.
Press the dough ball into the chopped pecans to coat it, then place it in the prepared baking pan.
Slightly press the dough down onto the baking pan to flatten it.
Repeat this process until all the dough is used and the cookies are placed in the baking pan, ensuring they are spaced out evenly.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking pan with the cookies into the preheated oven on the middle rack.
Bake for 18 minutes.
The cookies are done when the edges are light golden brown and the center is soft when lightly pressed.
This ensures a perfect texture.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes before serving.
They will firm up as they cool, giving them a delightful crunch.
For best results, cover the cookies and let them sit at room temperature overnight to enhance the flavors before serving.
Enjoy!
