If you’ve ever wished that the delicious warmth of pecan pie could be enjoyed in a crisp, bite-sized snack, then this Cinnamon Pecan Pie Crust Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. These charming cookies capture the buttery, flaky texture of a classic pie crust, dusted lovingly with cinnamon sugar and topped with a perfectly toasted pecan that adds both crunch and elegance. It’s a delightful twist on traditional pie that’s simple to prepare but irresistibly flavorful — a recipe that feels like a cozy hug with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each providing a foundational element that brings out the rich flavor and perfect crunch in your cookies. From buttery pie crust to warming cinnamon and crunchy pecans, every component works together to create a harmony of taste and texture.
- Prepared all-butter pie crust (approximately 250 grams): This is the star of the show, offering a flaky base that melts in your mouth.
- White sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps the cinnamon stick perfectly to the dough.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Infuses each cookie with that signature warm and aromatic spice.
- Large egg (1): Used to create a glossy egg wash that helps the topping adhere beautifully.
- Water (1 teaspoon): Mixed with the egg to make the egg wash smooth and easy to brush.
- Whole pecans (25): These add a crunchy, nutty crown to every cookie, elevating their flavor and presentation.
- All-purpose flour, for dusting: Prevents the dough from sticking while rolling and cutting.
How to Make Cinnamon Pecan Pie Crust Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Roll and Cut the Dough
Start by lightly flouring your workspace to prevent sticking, then roll out your prepared pie dough to about 3 millimeters thick. Next, cut the dough into strips roughly 8 centimeters wide and then slice those strips into triangles approximately 6 centimeters in length. Don’t throw away any scraps — gather them up, reroll, and cut until you’ve used all the dough. This process sets the perfect foundation for your cookies, evenly sized and ready to bake into golden, flaky treats.
Step 2: Create a Decorative Edge
Adding a special touch is easy — use the tines of a fork to gently press small indented lines along the base of each dough triangle. This not only makes your cookies look professionally made but also gives them an inviting texture that’s fun to nibble on.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Arrange your triangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them enough space to bake evenly. Refrigerate the sheet for at least 60 minutes; this chilling step is crucial because it helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances that beautifully flaky texture after they bake.
Step 4: Mix Cinnamon Sugar
While the dough chills, combine the white sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until perfectly blended. This magical mixture will become the sweet and spicy coating that makes these cookies unforgettable.
Step 5: Prepare the Egg Wash
Beat the egg along with a teaspoon of water until smooth and consistent. This egg wash will give your cookies a stunning golden sheen and also help the cinnamon sugar mixture adhere flawlessly.
Step 6: Preheat Your Oven to 163°C
Getting your oven to the right temperature ensures even baking. Preheating to 163 degrees Celsius is ideal for achieving that golden brown crust that signals perfectly baked cookies.
Step 7: Apply Egg Wash, Sprinkle, and Add Pecans
Brush the surface of each dough triangle with the egg wash, carefully avoiding the decorative edges so they stay crisp. Generously sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture over the triangles, then gently press a whole pecan in the center of each cookie. This step not only adds flavor but also a lovely visual appeal that makes these cookies stand out on any platter.
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Bake your cookies on the center rack for 20 to 25 minutes, watching for a deep golden brown color. Once baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential for the cookies to firm up and develop their signature crispness.
How to Serve Cinnamon Pecan Pie Crust Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar over the cookies just before serving can add an extra layer of sweetness and make them look irresistible. You could also drizzle a little honey or a thin glaze of maple syrup for an added glossy finish that complements the cinnamon notes beautifully.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a creamy hot chocolate, creating a cozy snack experience. For brunch or tea time, serving alongside fresh fruit or a mild cheese plate balances the sweetness and crunch with fresh, vibrant flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging these cookies in a circular pattern on a rustic wooden board to mimic a pie shape, highlighting their pie crust inspiration. You can also stack them in small piles tied with a ribbon as delightful edible gifts or party favors that will surely impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cinnamon pecan cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Proper storage is key to maintaining their crispness and preventing them from becoming stale.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag once firm. This method helps avoid them sticking together. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature or gently warm them in the oven.
Reheating
To revive the flaky texture and warmth, pop your cookies in a preheated oven at 150°C for 5 to 7 minutes. This will refresh their crispness and elevate the flavor, making them taste freshly baked again.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using a high-quality prepared all-butter pie crust works perfectly and saves time while delivering delightful flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have pecans? Can I use other nuts?
Yes, walnuts or almonds are great alternatives that pair well with cinnamon sugar. Just use whole nuts for the best presentation.
Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?
Yes, chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape and develop the flaky texture that makes this Cinnamon Pecan Pie Crust Cookies Recipe so special.
How long will these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh and crisp for up to one week.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
While this recipe calls for all-purpose flour in the pie crust, you can try using a gluten-free pie crust as a substitute to enjoy a gluten-free version without compromising too much on texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about this Cinnamon Pecan Pie Crust Cookies Recipe that brings the joy of homemade baking right into your kitchen with minimal fuss but maximum flavor. Whether you’re baking them for holiday gatherings, a cozy afternoon treat, or as a charming gift, these cookies never fail to impress with their flaky texture and sweet-spiced pecan topping. Give this recipe a try—you’ll find it becoming a beloved staple in your baking rotation in no time!
Print
Cinnamon Pecan Pie Crust Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These delightful Pie Crust Cookies with Cinnamon and Pecans are crisp, buttery treats perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings. Using a prepared all-butter pie crust, the cookies are rolled thin, cut into charming triangles with decorative fork-tine edging, brushed with a cinnamon-sugar egg wash, and topped with a whole pecan before baking to a golden perfection.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 prepared all-butter pie crust (approximately 250 grams)
- All-purpose flour, for dusting
Topping
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon water
- 25 whole pecans
Instructions
- Roll and cut dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie dough to 3 millimetres thickness. Cut the dough into strips about 8 centimetres wide, then slice each strip into triangles approximately 6 centimetres long. Gather and reroll scraps to cut additional triangles.
- Create decorative edges. Using the tines of a fork, gently press small indented lines along the base of each dough triangle to create a decorative edge, adding charm and texture.
- Chill the dough. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the triangles evenly with space between each. Refrigerate the arranged dough for at least 60 minutes to firm up, which helps maintain shape during baking.
- Prepare cinnamon sugar. In a small bowl, mix white sugar and ground cinnamon until thoroughly blended to create a flavorful topping.
- Make egg wash. In a separate bowl, beat the egg with 1 teaspoon of water until smooth and well combined; this will help the cinnamon sugar stick and give the cookies a beautiful shine.
- Preheat oven. Set the oven to 163°C (325°F) to prepare for baking.
- Brush and decorate cookies. Brush the surface of each dough triangle with the egg wash. Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over each triangle, avoiding the decorative fringes. Press one whole pecan gently into the center of each triangle to adhere.
- Bake until golden. Place the baking sheet on the center rack and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cookies are deep golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving to achieve perfect crispness.
Notes
- Ensure the dough is chilled well before baking to prevent spreading and maintain cookie shape.
- If you prefer, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for variation.
- Use fresh cinnamon for the best aromatic flavor in the sugar topping.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For added sweetness, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on the cookies after baking while still warm.
