Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops
Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops Recipe - Rich and Creamy Dessert
Introduction
Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for any occasion. These cookies are rich in flavor and have a satisfying crunch from the pecans. Whether you are looking for a sweet snack or a dessert to impress your guests, these shortbread drops are sure to be a hit.
History
Shortbread cookies have been enjoyed for centuries, with their origins dating back to medieval times in Scotland. The traditional recipe for shortbread typically consists of butter, sugar, and flour. This modern twist on the classic shortbread recipe adds a chocolatey flavor and a nutty crunch with the addition of cocoa powder and pecans.
Ingredients
- 2 sticks of unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 0.5 cup of granular sugar substitute
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- 2 tsp of chocolate extract
- 1 cup of Atkins Quick Quisine™ Bake Mix
- 2 tbsp of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 0.5 cup of finely chopped pecans
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar substitute on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 4 minutes.
- Reduce the speed to low and add the egg, vanilla extract, and chocolate extract.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add the bake mix, cocoa powder, and pecans. Mix until just combined.
- Drop the dough by heaping teaspoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the cookies are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 1 minute before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Variations
- Swap out the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
- Add in some chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decorative touch.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use softened butter for the best texture in these cookies.
- Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies.
- For a richer flavor, you can use regular sugar instead of a sugar substitute.
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding in your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or dried fruit.
Serving Suggestions
These shortbread drops are perfect for serving with a cup of hot tea or coffee. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter at a party.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to use softened butter for the best texture in these cookies.
- Use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Drop the dough onto the baking sheets using a teaspoon to ensure even sizing.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use regular sugar instead of a sugar substitute if desired.
- Any type of nut can be used in place of pecans in this recipe.
Make Ahead Tips
These cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Presentation Ideas
Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter and dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch. You can also serve them in a cookie tin for a charming presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
These shortbread drops pair well with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa. They also go nicely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, simply place the cookies in a 325°F oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops contains approximately 120 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops contains approximately 6 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
These cookies are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
This recipe contains nuts and eggs.
Summary
Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops are a delicious treat that is relatively low in carbohydrates and high in fats. They make for a satisfying snack or dessert option.
Summary
Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for any occasion. With a rich chocolate flavor and a satisfying crunch from the pecans, these cookies are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack or dessert option.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy kitchen. Margaret was known for her delicious baked goods, and she had a knack for finding the most unique and mouthwatering recipes.
As we sat at her kitchen table sipping tea, Margaret pulled out a worn and tattered cookbook from her shelf. She flipped through the pages with a twinkle in her eye, finally landing on a recipe for Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops. I had never heard of such a treat before, but as Margaret read through the ingredients and instructions, I knew I had to try it for myself.
The recipe called for simple ingredients like butter, sugar, flour, chocolate chips, and of course, pecans. Margaret explained that the key to making these cookies extra special was to use high-quality chocolate and to chop the pecans by hand to ensure they were the perfect size and texture.
With Margaret’s guidance, I followed the recipe step by step, creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, then folding in the flour and chopped pecans. The scent of butter and sugar filled the kitchen, mingling with the rich aroma of chocolate.
As I scooped the dough onto a baking sheet and popped it into the oven, Margaret and I chatted about our shared love of baking and the joy it brought to our lives. We laughed and reminisced about the many recipes we had tried and failed, and the ones that had become staples in our kitchens.
After a few minutes, the timer dinged, and I eagerly opened the oven to check on my Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops. The cookies had spread out beautifully, their edges golden brown and the chocolate chips melted into gooey pools of goodness. I couldn’t wait to taste them.
As Margaret and I sat at the table sampling the warm cookies, I knew I had found a new favorite recipe. The combination of buttery shortbread, crunchy pecans, and rich chocolate was simply divine. Margaret smiled at me, her eyes sparkling with pride.
From that day on, Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops became a regular treat in my home. I would bake them for special occasions, like birthdays and holidays, or simply to brighten someone’s day. The recipe became a part of me, a piece of Margaret’s legacy that I would carry with me always.
Over the years, I would make small adjustments to the recipe, adding a pinch of sea salt or drizzling the cookies with a decadent chocolate glaze. Each time I baked them, I would think of Margaret and the joy we shared in that warm and inviting kitchen.
As I grew older, I shared the recipe with my own grandchildren, passing down the tradition of baking and creating memories in the kitchen. I taught them the importance of using quality ingredients and the satisfaction that comes from sharing something homemade with loved ones.
And so, as I sit here now, with the scent of Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops wafting through the air, I am filled with gratitude for the moment I discovered this recipe. It has brought me so much joy and connection over the years, and I am grateful for the memories I have made along the way.
I may have learned how to make Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Drops from a simple recipe in a well-loved cookbook, but the true magic of this treat lies in the moments shared with friends and family, the laughter and love that fills the kitchen with every batch baked. And for that, I am truly grateful.
Categories
| Atkins Snacks | Baking Mix Recipes | Cocoa Recipes | Drop Cookie Recipes | Egg Recipes | Pecan Recipes | Special Diet Cookie Recipes |