Chocolate Dipped Toffee Pecan Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Looking for an elegant and irresistible holiday treat? These Chocolate Dipped Toffee Pecan Shortbread Cookies combine the buttery goodness of classic shortbread with crunchy pecans, sweet toffee bits, and a rich chocolate finish. Perfect for cookie platters or gifting, these cookies will quickly become a favorite at any festive gathering.

What Are Chocolate Dipped Toffee Pecan Shortbread Cookies?

These cookies are a delightful twist on traditional shortbread. Made with a base of buttery dough, they are infused with finely chopped pecans and toffee bits for added crunch and sweetness. Once baked, they are dipped in melted chocolate for a stunning and delicious finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
• Versatile presentation: Shape the dough into rounds or logs for a professional look.
• Perfect for gifting: These cookies stay fresh for days and look beautiful in holiday tins.
• Crowd-pleasing flavors: The combination of buttery shortbread, crunchy nuts, and chocolate is irresistible.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (60 g) finely chopped pecans
• ½ cup (50 g) toffee bits
• 1 cup (175 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips (for dipping)
• 1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening (optional, for melting chocolate)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Fold in the chopped pecans and toffee bits.

Shaping the Cookies

1. For uniform cookies, roll the dough into 1-inch balls or shape it into a log and slice it into ¼-inch thick rounds.
2. Place the dough shapes onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Baking

1. Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.

Dipping and Decorating

1. Melt the chocolate chips (with the optional coconut oil) in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 20-second intervals and stirring until smooth.
2. Dip half of each cooled cookie into the melted chocolate. Place the dipped cookies on parchment paper to set.
3. For an extra decorative touch, drizzle the remaining chocolate over the cookies or sprinkle them with crushed pecans before the chocolate hardens.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or tea for a cozy treat.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Add them to a festive cookie platter with other holiday favorites like sugar cookies or gingerbread.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Freeze baked cookies (without dipping in chocolate) in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Dip in chocolate after thawing for best results.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan: Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Nut-Free: Replace pecans with crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet twist.
• Extra Decadent: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate for a gourmet touch.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, milk chocolate or even dark chocolate can be used depending on your taste preference.

What’s the best way to chop the pecans?
A food processor can make quick work of chopping the pecans finely, but you can also do it by hand with a sharp knife.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cookies can be baked and stored in advance, making them perfect for holiday planning.

Chocolate Dipped Toffee Pecan Shortbread Cookies are a holiday favorite that combines rich flavors with a stunning presentation. Whether you’re making them for family, friends, or a festive cookie exchange, these treats are sure to impress. Try the recipe today and share the joy of these buttery, chocolate-dipped delights!

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