Mini Pecan Pie Cookie Cups

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Imagine the cozy richness of pecan pie, but in a bite-sized, handheld form. These Mini Pecan Pie Cookie Cups combine buttery cookie dough with a gooey, nutty filling to create a dessert that feels like fall and tastes like a hug. It’s the kind of treat that disappears fast from holiday tables, cookie exchanges, or even weekday dessert stashes.

The beauty of this recipe is how it turns a classic pie into a cookie that’s easy to make, share, and store. No need to deal with pie crusts or slicing perfect wedges—these are baked in a cupcake pan for foolproof, adorable little cups that are as cute as they are tasty.

Each cup is a buttery, tender cookie that hugs a rich pecan filling. The brown sugar and corn syrup melt together with butter to form a caramel-like base that clings to the finely chopped pecans and bakes into a golden, sticky filling. When you bite in, it’s all soft crunch and gooey sweetness in one irresistible mouthful.

What sets this recipe apart is the cookie dough itself. It’s made with brown sugar and vanilla, creating a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth contrast to the sticky, nutty center. The dough holds its shape well in the oven, so each cookie emerges with crisp edges and a soft, chewy bite.

These cookies are perfect for gifting. They pack well, hold their shape, and look elegant even without frosting or decoration. Just pop them in a festive tin and watch faces light up when people open the lid.

Whether you’re a pecan pie fan or just someone who loves chewy, buttery cookies, these mini pies are going to win you over. They’re everything we love about fall desserts in the most snackable form.

You don’t need any fancy tools or baking knowledge. If you can mix dough and press it into muffin cups, you can make these cookies like a pro. And once you taste that caramel-pecan center, you’ll wish you made a double batch.

They’re great for fall, but honestly, there’s no wrong season for these. Their warm, nutty flavor makes them just as welcome at spring potlucks or summer picnics.

You can also experiment with add-ins like a touch of cinnamon in the filling, or a chocolate drizzle on top. But we promise—even just as written, these are sensational.

Bake them ahead and store in an airtight container. They keep beautifully for several days and can even be frozen.

Let’s get baking so you can bring a little pie magic to your cookie tray!

Servings: 24 cookie cups
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 7 minutes

Ingredients

For the filling:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons light corn syrup
• 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans

For the cookie dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter. Stir in powdered sugar and corn syrup until dissolved. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly.
2. Add pecans, mix well, then refrigerate filling for 30 minutes to thicken.
3. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin pan.
4. In a bowl, sift together flour and baking powder; set aside.
5. In a separate large bowl, beat brown sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
6. Add egg and vanilla extract; beat until well combined.
7. Gradually stir in the flour mixture to form a soft dough.
8. Roll dough into 1-tablespoon-sized balls and press each into the muffin pan to form a cup.
9. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of chilled pecan filling into each dough cup.
10. Bake for 10–13 minutes, or until cookie edges are lightly golden.
11. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips for Best Results

• Use a tart shaper or thumb to press dough evenly into cups.
• Chill filling so it doesn’t spill over while baking.
• Avoid overfilling—a teaspoon is just right.
• Store in an airtight container at room temp or freeze for up to 2 months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the joy of pecan pie in cookie form.
• Easy to make, easier to eat.
• Buttery, chewy, and nutty in one bite.
• Great for gifting, parties, or snacking.

Mini Pecan Pie Cookie Cups are a sweet and simple way to enjoy the flavor of traditional pecan pie without the hassle. Buttery cookie dough, gooey pecan filling, and perfect portions make this recipe a crowd-pleasing winner all year long.