These Zesty Lemon Pecan Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cookie recipe, offering a burst of citrus flavor paired with the crunch of pecans.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using parchment paper prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, eggs, and milk until smooth.
Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Add the lemon-flavored cake mix to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
Fold in the chopped pecans gently.
Chop the pecans finely for a more even distribution in the cookies.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
Form the dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Press each ball down slightly with a fork.
Use a fork to create a crisscross pattern for a decorative touch.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Keep an eye on the cookies to prevent overbaking.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooling on the baking sheet helps the cookies set properly.