Making the Cookie Dough

Begin by creaming the softened butter and powdered sugar together in a mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, gradually add the all-purpose flour, salt, and vanilla extract, mixing until a cohesive dough forms. Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.

Shaping and Baking the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take small portions of the chilled dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, then use your thumb to make a small indent in the center of each one. Bake the cookies for 10 minutes, or until they’re just starting to turn golden brown.

Preparing the Pecan Filling

While the cookies are baking, it’s time to make the pecan filling. In a saucepan, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture, stirring frequently, until it’s melted and simmering. Allow it to simmer for about 2 minutes, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Filling and Finishing the Cookies

Once the cookies have baked for 10 minutes, remove them from the oven. Carefully spoon the warm pecan filling into the indents of each cookie. Return the filled cookies to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Allow the Pecan Pie Cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. This will ensure the filling has set and the cookies have a chance to firm up.