Pearl'S Pecan Drops
Delightful pecan drops with a tender crumb and crunchy nuts, featuring vanilla and buttery flavors; perfect for teatime, holidays, or as a sweet treat for guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375° F.
- Grease a baking sheet with butter flavor Crisco.
- Combine sugar, Crisco, and vanilla in a large bowl.
- Beat at medium speed of electric mixer until blended and crumbly.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
- Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternating with buttermilk, mixing thoroughly after each addition at low speed.
- Stir in chopped pecans with a spoon.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Cool for 2 minutes on the baking sheet before removing to a wire rack.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using light brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing milk with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or replace them with chocolate chips for a delightful twist. Remember to keep an eye on the cookies, as baking times can vary based on your oven.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan drops are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat after dinner. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea to enhance the flavors. They also make a delightful addition to dessert trays alongside treats like My Grandmother'S Rice Pudding or Brown Sugar Peanut Butter Cookies. Enjoy them plain, or drizzle with a little icing for extra sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pecan drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy them warm again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through, ensuring they retain their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pearl'S Pecan Drops contains roughly 490 calories, with 4g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1352mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular butter instead of Crisco?
Yes, you can substitute regular butter for Crisco in this recipe. Just remember that using butter will change the flavor slightly and may result in a softer cookie. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for the best mixing results.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you’re looking for an alternative to pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. For a nut-free option, consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To give these pecan drops a festive twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. You can also decorate them with colorful sprinkles or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a seasonal treat that’s perfect for holidays.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).