Whenever my mother-in-law gets upset with me, baking these cookies always seem to cheer her up! I like to call these 'Peacekeeper' cookies!

Peacekeeper Cookies are a classic treat beloved by many for their rich, nutty flavor and irresistible texture. These cookies hold a fond spot in Southern baking, where pecans feature prominently due to their abundance in the region. While the origin of the butter pecan flavor combination isn't clearly documented, it is often associated with the warmth and hospitality of Southern kitchens, where pecans are used in a variety of dishes from pies to pralines. Peacekeeper Cookies bring together the smooth taste of butter with the toasty crunch of pecans in a delightful cookie form, making them a perfect accompaniment to tea or coffee.

When serving Peacekeeper Cookies, you have a range of options to enhance their flavor. They are perfect on their own as a sweet treat with a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk. For a more decadent dessert experience, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A warm cookie served with a side of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt can elevate the homey cookie to a gourmet-level dessert. However you choose to serve them, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring the ingredients are well combined.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

6. Gently fold in the toasted chopped pecans.

7. Drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave enough space between each cookie.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center.

9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Peacekeeper Cookies as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack at any time of the day!