Chewy Maple Pecan No-Bake Cookies With Oats
If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s super easy to whip up, these chewy maple pecan cookies are the answer. Packed with wholesome oats and pecans’ rich, nutty flavor, they hit all the right spots without needing an oven. Perfect for those warm days when you don’t want to turn up the heat in the kitchen!
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These cookies combine the delightful maple flavoring with the crunch of pecans, creating the ultimate snack for any time of day. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick breakfast on the go or a midday pick-me-up, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping things simple and delicious!
If you are searching for more pecan recipes, I have a few more you might want to try out. You can make some gluten free candied pecans with this simple recipe. For dessert, make this maple pecan caramel apple cobbler.
Still in the mood for more cookies? Go for a classic with these chocolate chip cookies – no butter needed!
Table of Contents
Reasons You’ll Love These Pecan and Maple Cookies
- No Baking Required: Enjoy the ease of making cookies without ever turning on the oven, perfect for hot summer days or quick snacks.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with oats and nutritious pecans, these cookies offer a satisfying and healthy alternative to traditional desserts.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet, rich taste of delicious maple flavor paired with the crunch of pecans creates a delightful contrast that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Versatile Snack: Great for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or even a late-night indulgence, these cookies can fit seamlessly into any part of your day.
What’s in This Maple Pecan Cookies Recipe?
- Old Fashioned Oats: These oats are minimally processed and retain their unique texture, making them a hearty addition to cookies. They provide a good source of dietary fibre, which can help with digestion and keep you feeling full longer.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener derived from the sap of maple trees, pure maple syrup adds a rich, sweet, and slightly smoky flavor. Real maple syrup is packed with antioxidants and can be a healthier alternative to refined sugars in recipes.
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of your cookies and enhances the overall flavor. Butter contributes to the chewy texture and rich taste of the cookies, helping to bind the ingredients together.
- Toasted Pecans: These nuts add a delicious crunch and a rich, buttery flavor to the cookies. Pecans are also a great source of healthy fats, protein, and various vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any treat.
See the recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and measurements.
Substitutions and Additions
- Nut Alternatives: If you’re allergic to pecans, swap them for walnuts, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds for a different texture and flavor.
- Sweetener Swap: For a refined sugar-free version, try using honey or agave syrup in place of maple syrup. Just keep in mind that honey can make the cookies slightly more chewy.
- Oat Variations: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use instant oats or quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats. However, this may change the overall bite of your cookie.
- Add-ins: Feel free to throw in some dark chocolate chips, dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, or even a touch of cinnamon to elevate the flavour. Coconut flakes can also add a lovely tropical twist to your cookies.
- Vegan Option: To make these cookies vegan, replace the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter, and use maple syrup or agave as sweeteners.
How to Make Chewy Maple Pecan Cookies (step-by-step directions)
- Start by lining your workspace or cookie sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine dry ingredients: the old-fashioned oats and chopped pecans, ensuring they are well mixed. Set this bowl aside. (Photo 1)
- Cut the unsalted butter into 2-tablespoon portions.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced butter and maple syrup. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a temperature of 240°F on a candy thermometer (this should take about 10 minutes). This step is crucial for the cookies’ success. (Photos 2 & 3)
- Once the syrup mixture reaches the correct temperature, pour it over the oat and pecan mix. Stir well to ensure the syrup is evenly distributed throughout the oats and nuts. (Photo 4)
- Using a 1.9-inch cookie scoop (or a smaller size if you prefer), portion out approximately 2 dozen balls of dough. Place cookie dough balls onto the prepared parchment paper.
- To flatten each cookie, lightly spray a flat-bottomed measuring cup or similar item with nonstick cooking spray. Press down on each cookie mound to create an even shape, and use your fingers to tidy the edges if necessary. (Photo 5)
- Let the cookies sit for one hour. Afterward, gently flip each perfect cookie, which may still feel a little tacky — that’s completely fine! Allow them to sit for another hour after flipping.
- If desired, top each cookie with a whole pecan before serving. Enjoy your delicious, chewy cookies! (Photo 6)
Recipe Tips
- Uniform Size: To ensure even cooking, use a cookie scoop for uniform sizing, which helps achieve consistent texture throughout each batch.
- Temperature Check: Make sure not to overheat the butter and maple syrup mixture; exceeding 240°F can lead to a dry texture in your cookies.
- Personalize Your Flavor: Experiment with spices like vanilla extract or nutmeg to customize the wonderful flavor profile of your cookies.
Storing Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep your chewy maple pecan cookies fresh.
If you want to enjoy them longer, you can freeze the cookies after they have cooled completely. Please place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for about an hour, then transfer them to a zip-top plastic bag or an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.
When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw the cookies at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to return their delightfully chewy texture. Enjoy your treats anytime you desire!
Serving Suggestions
These chewy maple pecan cookies can be paired with all sorts of tasty treats to improve your experience. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. A bit of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also make them even more indulgent.
For a festive vibe, enjoy them with a hot cup of spiced chai tea or freshly brewed coffee, setting a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings. Plus, their sweet and nutty flavor goes well with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, making them a great match for a charcuterie board or a cheese platter.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts based on your preference. Each nut offers a unique flavor and texture.
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. Remember to allow it to come to room temperature before scooping and shaping.
If your cookies are hard, they may have been over-baked. Make sure to check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time ends. Also, storing them with a slice of bread can help soften them.
Yes, you can use certified gluten-free oats and ensure that other ingredients, such as baking powder, are also gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy the cookies without gluten.
Need More Cookie Recipes? Try These:
- Easy Valentine Message Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Best Rice Krispie Cookies with Chocolate Chips
- Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Recipe (Best Chewy Cookies)
- New Mexico Biscochitos
- Crumbl Copycat Recipe – Oreo Birthday Cookie
- See all our incredible cookie recipes!
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Chewy Maple Pecan No-Bake Cookies with Oats
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 Cups (324 ⅓ g) Old Fashioned Oats
- 2 ½ Cups (591 ½ ml) Maple Syrup
- 1 Stick Unsalted Butter ½ cup
- 1 Cup (109 g) Finely Chopped Pecans
Instructions
- Start by lining your workspace or cookie sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine dry ingredients: the old-fashioned oats and chopped pecans, ensuring they are well mixed. Set this bowl aside.4 Cups Old Fashioned Oats,1 Cup Finely Chopped Pecans
- Cut the unsalted butter into 2-tablespoon portions.1 Stick Unsalted Butter
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced butter and maple syrup. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a temperature of 240°F on a candy thermometer (this should take about 10 minutes). This step is crucial for the cookies’ success.2 ½ Cups Maple Syrup
- Once the syrup mixture reaches the correct temperature, pour it over the oat and pecan mix. Stir well to ensure the syrup is evenly distributed throughout the oats and nuts.
- Using a 1.9-inch cookie scoop (or a smaller size if you prefer), portion out approximately 2 dozen balls of dough. Place cookie dough balls onto the prepared parchment paper.
- To flatten each cookie, lightly spray a flat-bottomed measuring cup or similar item with nonstick cooking spray. Press down on each cookie mound to create an even shape, and use your fingers to tidy the edges if necessary.
- Let the cookies sit for one hour. Afterward, gently flip each perfect cookie, which may still feel a little tacky — that’s completely fine! Allow them to sit for another hour after flipping.
- If desired, top each cookie with a whole pecan before serving. Enjoy your delicious chewy cookies!
Notes
- Uniform Size: To ensure even cooking, use a cookie scoop for uniform sizing, which helps achieve consistent texture throughout each batch.
- Temperature Check: Make sure not to overheat the butter and maple syrup mixture; exceeding 240°F can lead to a dry texture in your cookies.
- Personalize Your Flavor: Experiment with spices like vanilla extract or nutmeg to customize the wonderful flavor profile of your cookies.
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Nutrition Information
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