Easy Classic Pecan Crescent Cookies
Pecan Crescent Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday dessert spread. These buttery, nutty treats are the perfect blend of crunch and sweetness, making them a timeless favorite during the festive season. Shaped like little crescent moons and generously coated in powdered sugar, these cookies are basically the edible version of a winter wonderland—only much tastier and way less cold! Whether you know them as Mexican Wedding Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes, or simply pecan crescents, they’re sure to bring a touch of nostalgia and joy to your table.
These cookies are made with simple ingredients, like butter, vanilla extract, and crunchy pecans, to create a crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. Perfectly paired with a cup of tea or hot cocoa, Pecan Crescent Cookies are easy to prepare and make an excellent addition to a Christmas cookie exchange or holiday gift box. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe to bring a little sweetness to your holiday season!
Let’s take a look at how to make this Pecan Crescent Cookies recipe, shall we?
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup confectioner’s sugar/powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or feel free to leave it ungreased.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, beat softened butter with an electric mixer or hand mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and salt, mixing well.
- Add the Pecans and Vanilla: Stir in chopped pecans and vanilla extract. Slowly mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies: Divide dough into 24 dough balls. Form each ball into a crescent shape. Place cookies on the baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Coat in Sugar: Let cookies cool slightly, then roll them in additional powdered sugar while warm.
Enjoy! Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing.
What is Crescent Shape
Shaping crescent cookies involves taking small portions of cookie dough and rolling them into evenly sized balls or logs before gently curving them into a crescent moon-like shape. This process not only gives the cookies their signature appearance but also ensures even baking and a delicate, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth.
Tips for Perfect Pecan Crescent Cookies
- Room Temperature Butter: Make sure the butter is softened for easy mixing.
- Pecan Prep: Use a food processor for evenly chopped pecans or swap with your favorite nuts like almonds or walnuts for a twist.
- Storage: Store baked cookies in an airtight container layered with parchment paper to maintain freshness for up to a week. To “freshen” them up, roll them in a little powdered sugar.
- Holiday Variations: Add a hint of almond extract or drizzle melted chocolate for extra flavor.
Pecan Crescent Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter softened
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup confectioner's sugar plus extra for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (170°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or leave it ungreased.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and salt, mixing well.
- Stir in chopped pecans and vanilla extract. Slowly mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
- Take a teaspoonful of dough and shape it into crescent-shaped cookies. Place them on the baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Let cookies cool slightly, then roll them in additional powdered sugar while warm.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing.
Nutrition
Ready to try these buttery, nutty treats? Whip up a batch of Pecan Crescent Cookies and make your holiday season even sweeter. Don’t forget to share your creations with us—tag @SouthernKissed on social media!
