Chewy Gluten-Free Chocolate Pecan Cookies

Prep: 15 minCook: 11 min36 cookiesmediumAmerican
Chewy Gluten-Free Chocolate Pecan Cookies

Rich, fudgy chocolate cookies with a perfectly chewy texture and crunchy pecan pieces throughout. Made with King Arthur gluten-free flour and almond meal for structure, these indulgent treats deliver deep cocoa flavor in every bite. The combination of brown and granulated sugars creates the ideal chewy consistency, while chopped pecans add delightful texture contrast. Perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings or bringing to gatherings where gluten-free options are needed. The ping pong ball sizing ensures thick, bakery-style cookies that stay soft in the center.

Ingredients

Yield: 36 cookies
  • 2 ½ cups King Arthur gluten free flour
  • ½ cup almond meal
    coconut flour1:2 ratiogluten-freenut-freetree_nuts-free

    reduce liquid slightly

    Full guide →
  • 1 tsp ground chia seeds
  • 1 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 ½ tsp salt
    vegan butter1:1 ratiogluten-freevegandairy-freedairy-free

    room temperature

    Full guide →
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
    vegan butter1:1 ratiogluten-freevegandairy-freedairy-free

    room temperature

    Full guide →
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup pecans, chopped and divided
    walnuts1:1 ratiogluten-freetree-nuts

    same texture profile

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350 degrees

  2. 2

    Whisk together flour, chia seed, almond flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder and salt in large mixing bowl until completely incorporated and set aside

  3. 3

    Cream butter and both sugars until light and fluffy

  4. 4

    Add eggs and vanilla and combine completely

  5. 5

    Combine wet and dry ingredients then fold in half the chopped pecans

  6. 6

    Mix until thoroughly combined

  7. 7

    Form batter into ping pong ball sized portions

  8. 8

    Place on parchment lined baking sheet approximately 3 inches apart without flattening

  9. 9

    Sprinkle tops with remaining pecan pieces

  10. 10

    Bake 9 to 11 minutes

  11. 11

    Cool on baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to cooling rack

  12. 12

    Sprinkle with granulated sugar

Tips

Tip 1

Don't flatten the dough balls before baking to maintain the thick, chewy texture that makes these cookies special.

Tip 2

Room temperature butter is crucial for proper creaming with the sugars to achieve the right texture.

Tip 3

Reserve some chopped pecans to sprinkle on top before baking for extra visual appeal and crunch.

Good to Know

Storage

Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Make Ahead

Dough can be formed into balls and refrigerated overnight or frozen for up to 3 months before baking.

Serve With

Best served at room temperature. Can be warmed slightly for extra chewiness.

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't overbake to avoid dry, crumbly cookies instead of chewy ones

Watch

Ensure butter is properly room temperature to avoid lumpy cookie dough

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

unsalted butter
vegan butter1:1 ratiogluten-freevegandairy-freedairy-free

room temperature

Full guide →

Gluten-Free Swaps

pecans
walnuts1:1 ratiogluten-freetree-nuts

same texture profile

Full guide →

Nut-Free Alternatives

almond meal
coconut flour1:2 ratiogluten-freenut-freetree_nuts-free

reduce liquid slightly

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make these without chia seeds?

Yes, you can omit the chia seeds though they add binding properties that help with the gluten-free texture.

How do I know when they're done baking?

The cookies should look set but still slightly soft in the center. They'll continue cooking on the hot pan.

Can I freeze the baked cookies?

Yes, freeze completely cooled cookies in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.