Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar substitute (e.g., Stevia or Monk Fruit, packed)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar substitute (e.g., Stevia or Monk Fruit)
  • 1 large egg or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for an egg substitute
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups whole wheat flour or a combination of whole wheat and almond flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped and toasted pecans

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures even baking and a lovely golden color.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar substitute, and granulated sugar substitute until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This forms the basis for delicious cookies while keeping the points in check.
  3. Gently blend in the egg (or applesauce) and vanilla extract to add moisture and a delightful aroma to your cookies.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour (or your preferred combination), baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution and prevent clumps.
  5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the buttery blend and stir until it forms a consistent dough. Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients.
  6. Fold in the toasted pecans. This step adds a delightful nutty flavor and crunch to the cookies.
  7. Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form balls of dough and place them on a baking sheet, ensuring enough space between each.
  8. Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they achieve a lovely golden hue.
  9. Once baked, allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once cooled, they are ready to enjoy!

Cooking Tips:

  • Softened butter is essential for a creamy texture. Leave it at room temperature for about an hour before starting.
  • Toast the pecans in the oven for 5 minutes at 350°F or until aromatic to intensify their flavor.
  • Avoid overmixing the dough to prevent tough cookies.
  • For consistent cookies, use a cookie scoop or measure the dough with a tablespoon.
  • Keep in mind that cookies continue to cook slightly once out of the oven due to residual heat, so be cautious about overbaking.
  • Store your Weight Watchers-friendly Butter Pecan Cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and that delightful crunch without compromising your points.