Go Back

Pecan Pie Thumbprint Cookies – Easy Dessert Recipes for a Sweet Treat

Ever wish you could shrink an entire pecan pie into a buttery little bite you can eat off a napkin? That’s exactly what these pecan pie thumbprint cookies do. They’re rich, nutty, and—let’s be honest—dangerously easy to pop in your mouth by the handful. I made these on a Tuesday. Why a Tuesday? Because that’s the kind of week it was—one that needed a cookie shaped like joy. They start with a shortbread-style dough that melts in your mouth, then you press a little well in the middle (thumbprint-style!) and fill it with a brown sugar and pecan mixture that tastes like the holidays. No forks. No plates. Just joy. Whether you're baking for a holiday tray or just craving something cozy, these cookies check all the boxes. And if you're anything like me, you'll be scooping the filling straight from the bowl. Just saying. We’re keeping things sweet, simple, and Southern—with a little wink.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time22 minutes
Total Time37 minutes
Course: Cookies
Cuisine: American
Keywords: air fryer cookies easy recipes, air fryer cookies easy recipes healthy, air fryer desserts easy recipes, air fryer oatmeal cookies easy recipes, air fryer sugar cookies easy recipes, easy dessert recipes, sweet easy recipes
Servings: 30 cookies
Author: Lila

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar (for filling)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for filling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with both sugars until fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg and vanilla.
  4. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until the dough forms.
  5. Scoop out tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll them between your hands.
  6. Place on the baking sheet and press a thumb or spoon into the center of each to make a little well.
  7. In a small bowl, stir together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, cream, and vanilla.
  8. Spoon a bit of pecan filling into each cookie center.
  9. Bake for 20–22 minutes or until the edges are golden.
  10. Cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then move to a wire rack.