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Pecan Crescents

Pecan Crescents recipe image
These Pecan Crescents are a classic American holiday cookie that combines the richness of melted butter with the earthy crunch of finely chopped pecans. The dough is simple to mix, resulting in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that holds its delicate crescent shape perfectly. Lightly spiced with nutmeg and sweetened with a dusting of confectioners' sugar, they offer a sophisticated flavor profile without being overly sweet. They are an elegant addition to any cookie platter, holiday gathering, or afternoon tea service. Easy to bake in batches, these cookies freeze beautifully, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy seasons or festive celebrations.
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 5
Calories: 655.2
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description
These Pecan Crescents are a classic American holiday cookie that combines the richness of melted butter with the earthy crunch of finely chopped pecans. The dough is simple to mix, resulting in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that holds its delicate crescent shape perfectly. Lightly spiced with nutmeg and sweetened with a dusting of confectioners' sugar, they offer a sophisticated flavor profile without being overly sweet. They are an elegant addition to any cookie platter, holiday gathering, or afternoon tea service. Easy to bake in batches, these cookies freeze beautifully, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy seasons or festive celebrations.
Ingredients
  • 3 cup Unsifted all-purpose flour;
  • 3 tbsp Cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp Baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp Baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp Cream of tartar
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Freshly ground nutmeg
  • 3/4 lb Unsalted butter; melted and cooled (3 sticks)
  • 2/3 c Confectioners' sugar
  • 1 1/4 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 c Finely chopped pecans
Directions
  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. 2
    In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, cream of tartar, salt, and nutmeg until well combined.
  3. 3
    In a large bowl, combine melted and cooled butter, confectioners' sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
  4. 4
    Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the finely chopped pecans.
  5. 5
    Drop rounded teaspoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  6. 6
    Gently flatten each mound slightly and shape into a crescent if desired, though they will spread slightly during baking.
  7. 7
    Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
  8. 8
    Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 5

Amount Per Serving
Calories 655.2kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 1.8g3%
Saturated Fat 0.4g2%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 3.6mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 136.8g46%
Dietary Fiber 4.9g20%
Sugars 0.5g
Protein 18.0g36%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Ensure the butter is melted but fully cooled before mixing to prevent the dough from becoming too greasy or spreading too much.

For best flavor, use freshly ground nutmeg and high-quality pecans. Toasting the pecans lightly before chopping can enhance the nutty flavor.

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.

If the dough is too sticky to handle, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before shaping.

Keywords: pecans, crescents, cookies, butter, holiday, christmas, dessert, sweet, nutmeg, confectioners sugar, easy baking, american cuisine, party food, make ahead, toasted nuts, crescent shape, baked goods, gift giving, cookie platter
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/pecan-crescents-2/