Pecan Drops
Sweet, crunchy pecan drops with cinnamon and vanilla, perfect for tea time or holiday treats, appealing to those who enjoy nutty, cinnamon-flavored cookies.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all dry ingredients, then fold in beaten egg whites.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto a cookie sheet.
- Bake in a slow oven at 325° to 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the chopped pecans before adding them to the mixture. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute half of the brown sugar with a sugar alternative like coconut sugar. Be sure to fold the egg whites gently to maintain their volume for lighter drops. This recipe is a great example of American recipes that highlight nuts.
Serving Suggestions
Pecan Drops are delightful as a standalone treat, but they also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside slices of Sinful German Chocolate Cake. They make a great addition to dessert platters during gatherings or holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pecan Drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer them chewier, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving. Avoid freezing as the texture may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Drops contains roughly 704 calories, with 5g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 775mg per serving (34% 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 other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly. Ensure any alternative nuts are finely chopped to maintain the same texture in the drops.
What if my egg whites don’t stiffen properly?
If your egg whites aren’t beating to stiff peaks, they might contain fat or moisture. Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry. Adding a pinch of cream of tartar can help stabilize the egg whites and achieve the desired texture.
How can I tell when the Pecan Drops are done baking?
The Pecan Drops should be lightly golden on the edges and set in the center when done. Keep an eye on them as they can bake quickly in a hotter oven. If they are still soft in the middle, allow them to sit on the cookie sheet for a couple of minutes to firm up.
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).