Name: Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies: A Sweet Slice of Comfort
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 44 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option); 1 teaspoon baking powder (ensure it's fresh); 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon kosher salt (regular salt can work; use less); ¾ cup unsalted butter (use dairy-free margarine for vegan option); ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark works well); ½ cup granulated sugar (can be reduced for less sweetness); 2 large eggs (use room temperature for better incorporation); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (almond extract is a good alternative); 1 cup pecans (toasting them elevates flavor); ½ cup caramel sauce (use store-bought or homemade); 4 ounces cream cheese (substitute with vegan alternative if desired); 1 cup powdered sugar (adjust to preferred sweetness); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (can be omitted if desired)

As I lifted the warm cookies from the oven, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, reminiscent of Sunday dinners filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of pecan pie. These Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies capture that same comforting essence—flaky, buttery bites infused with a rich caramel-pecan filling that’s sure to delight your taste buds. What’s more, these easy desserts require little effort, making them a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family gathering or simply craving a homemade treat, these cookies are a delightful option. Plus, with an optional cream cheese frosting that adds a tangy twist, they can be effortlessly personalized to suit any palate. Ready to impress your friends and family with a taste of nostalgia? Let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious treat!

Why Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies Shine?

Unforgettable Flavor: These cookies blend the classic warmth of pecan pie with the convenience of a cookie, delivering an irresistible taste packed with caramel and pecans.

Quick and Easy: Made in under 30 minutes, they’re perfect for a spontaneous baking session.

Versatile Options: Customize them with optional cream cheese frosting or try unique twists like bourbon-infused caramel for an adult kick.

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these sweet bites, making them a sure hit for gatherings or dessert nights.

Store and Share: Bake a batch, store them fresh for days, or freeze the dough for a quick treat whenever the craving strikes! If you love quick desserts, don’t forget to check out my Pecan Pancakes Cozy for another easy delight!

Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Baking Soda – Another leavening agent that helps create light, fluffy cookies.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavors; regular salt can work, but use less to avoid over-salting.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; dairy-free margarine works for a vegan alternative.
• Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and moisture; light or dark brown sugar both perform well.
• Granulated Sugar – Additional sweetness for your cookie dough; can be reduced for less sugary taste.
• Eggs – Vital for binding; make sure to use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Boosts flavor; almond extract offers a delightful variation.

For the Filling
• Pecans – Adds flavor and crunch; toasting them elevates their taste, or swap for walnuts for a different nutty note.
• Caramel Sauce – Provides sweetness and sticky moisture; opt for store-bought or homemade based on your time.

For the Frosting (Optional)
• Cream Cheese – Adds richness to the frosting; substitute with a vegan cream cheese alternative if desired.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; adjust to your preferred level of sweetness.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the frosting’s flavor; can be omitted if you want a more straightforward frosting.

With these ingredients ready, you’ll be just moments away from indulging in these delightful Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and enhances the flavor of your Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies. Set aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In another bowl, beat ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, turning a pale golden color. This step adds essential air to your cookie dough for a tender texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add 2 large room temperature eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until well blended. Next, stir in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients from Step 1 using a spatula, taking care not to overmix—aim for a barely combined dough to ensure tenderness in your cookies.

Step 4: Add Pecans and Chill Dough
Gently fold in 1 cup of toasted pecans to the dough, reserving a handful for topping later. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. Chilling the dough is crucial, as it prevents excessive spreading during baking, allowing your Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies to maintain a lovely shape.

Step 5: Bake Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and after chilling, scoop generous portions of dough onto the sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, watching for the edges to turn lightly golden and the centers to look set but still soft.

Step 6: Add Caramel Drizzle and Frosting
Once baked, remove your cookies from the oven and immediately drizzle warm caramel sauce over the tops. If desired, prepare the optional cream cheese frosting by mixing 4 ounces of cream cheese with 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice until smooth. Frost the cooled cookies generously and sprinkle the reserved pecans on top for a delightful finishing touch.

What to Serve with Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies

Indulging in these delightful cookies opens the door to a whole world of comforting pairings that elevate your dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds a creamy, cool contrast to the warm, gooey cookies. It’s a perfect match for a sweet escape!
Coffee or Espresso: The rich flavor of coffee complements the caramel undertones beautifully, creating a comforting experience for cozy gatherings.
Creamy Hot Chocolate: For a cozy, decadent twist, serve these cookies with a rich cup of hot chocolate, indulgent and simple joy in every bite.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: An additional drizzle of warm caramel brings out the pecan flavor and enhances the cookie’s gooey filling. A sweet touch of nostalgia!
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai contrast deliciously with the sweetness of the cookie, offering a warm, inviting beverage option.
Toasted Pecans: Serve some extra toasted pecans on the side for a delightful crunch that’s also reminiscent of the cookie’s filling.
Lemonade: For a refreshing contrast, a glass of chilled lemonade adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the sweetness perfectly.
Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecakes add a creamy, rich texture that pairs well with the soft, buttery cookies, creating a gourmet dessert platter.
Chocolate Milk: Ideal for the young (or young at heart), chocolate milk provides a nostalgic, fun complement to the sweetness of the cookies, ensuring smiles all around!

Make Ahead Options

These Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients, shape the dough into a disc, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. This chilling step helps preserve the cookie’s texture and prevents spreading during baking. If you want to prepare even further, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, scoop and bake the chilled dough for soft, chewy cookies, then drizzle with warm caramel and frost with cream cheese for that delightful finishing touch. Enjoy the convenience of having a homemade treat ready whenever the craving strikes!

How to Store and Freeze Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and soft.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can store the cookies in the fridge for up to a week; however, they may dry out slightly, so ensure they’re sealed well.

Freezer: To freeze unbaked dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Reheating: For best results, reheat cookies in a warm oven (300°F/150°C) for about 5 minutes to regain that fresh-baked softness. Enjoy your delicious Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies!

Expert Tips for Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies

Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature; this helps them blend smoothly into the dough, resulting in a tender cookie.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough! This crucial step prevents excessive spreading, ensuring your cookies hold their shape during baking.
Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the dough. Stop once the flour is just combined to maintain the soft, tender texture of your Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies.
Quality Leavening Agents: Use fresh baking powder and baking soda. Expired agents won’t provide the lift needed for those delightful golden edges.
Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds, or even omit them for a nut-free version.
Serve Fresh: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days—perfect for sharing or keeping as a sweet treat!

Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own—each variation brings a delightful twist!

Nut Substitutes: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Maple Magic: Use maple syrup instead of caramel for a uniquely mild sweetness that enhances the cookie’s natural flavor.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter with a non-dairy alternative and coconut sugar for a vegan-friendly treat that everyone can enjoy.
Bourbon Twist: Add a dash of bourbon to the caramel sauce for an adult twist and a hint of complexity in every bite.
Cinnamon Spice: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon into the dough to infuse a warm, cozy spiciness reminiscent of fall.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the warm cookies instead of caramel for a rich, decadent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
Mini Cheesecake Version: For a cheesecake-inspired twist, mix cream cheese into the cookie dough for a creamier texture that’s simply irresistible.

Looking for more delicious dessert ideas? Don’t miss my delightful Cherry Pie Bars or indulge in Lava Brownie Cookies that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting pecans?
Absolutely! When choosing pecans, look for ones that are plump and free from dark spots or signs of moisture. Fresh pecans should have a firm texture and a pleasant, nutty aroma. If you can, choose pecans that are labeled as “fresh” or “raw” and not past their expiration date to ensure the best flavor in your cookies.

How long can I store Crumbl Copycat Pecan Pie Cookies?
Very! You can keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer, storing them in the fridge will extend their freshness to about a week, but they might become slightly dry without proper sealing.

Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Of course! To freeze the unbaked dough, first shape it into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then cover it with aluminum foil. This way, the dough will stay fresh for about 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the fridge overnight before proceeding with the baking steps.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries! If you find your dough is too sticky, it may be helpful to chill it for a little longer—about 15-20 additional minutes will make it easier to handle. If it’s still sticky after chilling, consider adding a tablespoon or two of flour incrementally until you reach the desired consistency.

Can I make these cookies nut-free or vegan?
Absolutely! To make nut-free cookies, simply omit the pecans altogether or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds for added texture. For a vegan version, swap the eggs with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water equals one egg) and use a dairy-free margarine in place of butter. Enjoy customizing your treats!