Caramel Pecan Oatmeal Cookies

why make this recipe

Caramel Pecan Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that combines sweet caramel, crunchy pecans, and hearty oats. They’re perfect for any occasion, from a cozy afternoon snack to a holiday gathering. The chewy texture of oats intertwined with the rich flavors of caramel and nuts creates a cookie that everyone will love. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can bake a batch without much hassle!

how to make Caramel Pecan Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar (lightly packed)
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 package (10 ounces) caramel chips
• 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a baking mat.
2. Using a stand or electric mixer, beat together the butter and sugars until creamy.
3. Add in the eggs and vanilla, and mix until combined.
4. Add in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt, and mix until combined.
5. Fold in the caramel chips and chopped pecans.
6. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop 1 1/2 to 2-inch balls onto the baking sheet. Gently flatten them just a bit with your fingers.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes; the centers will look undercooked. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

how to serve Caramel Pecan Oatmeal Cookies

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re still warm and gooey. You can serve them plain, or pair them with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat! They also make a lovely addition to dessert trays or as a homemade gift.

how to store Caramel Pecan Oatmeal Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers, and they can last for up to three months.

tips to make Caramel Pecan Oatmeal Cookies

• Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Don’t skip flattening the cookie balls; this helps them bake evenly.
• If you want extra chewiness, let the dough sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking.
• Feel free to add a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a salty-sweet contrast.

variation

If you’re looking to mix things up, try adding chocolate chips alongside the caramel chips for a double treat. You can also substitute walnuts for pecans if you prefer a different nut flavor.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture of the cookies will be slightly different. Rolled oats give a chewier texture.

What can I use instead of pecans?
You can substitute pecans with any nut you like, such as walnuts or almonds. You could also leave nuts out entirely if you prefer nut-free cookies.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix instead of regular flour to make these cookies gluten-free. Just ensure that the caramel chips and any other added ingredients are also gluten-free.