Have you ever tried the Praline Cookies in the Cafe at Nordstrom’s? Oh, trust me, you would remember if you had experienced this treasure. My top two picks from the Nordstrom cafe are of course, the Tomato Basil Soup and the Praline Cookie. Picture the Nordstrom cookie—it is the size of a tea cup saucer—huge! You can indulge or share it 4 ways, either way you come out a winner.
Today’s treat for you is my copycat recipe. I think this recipe is pretty darn close to the Nordstrom fav. I can’t in good conscience make the cookies as big as their namesake but if you must enjoy two or three at one sitting, please do so with no added guilt.
Add these to your must try list. You will be pleasantly surprised.
Praline Frosted Pecan Cookies
1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
1 egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans (I use the food processor)
Toasted pecan halves (optional as garnish)
Beat butter with mixer until creamy. Gradually add sugars, mixing well. Add egg and vanilla; beat well.
Combine flour, soda and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture; mixing well. Stir in chopped pecans. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Shape dough into 1-inch balls and place on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake at 350º F. for 10 to 12 minutes. Cool completely on wire racks. Frost with Praline Frosting and top with pecan half.
Makes about 3 dozen cookies
Praline Frosting
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup half and half (please not fat free)
1 tablespoon butter
1 2/3 cups sifted powdered sugar
1 tablespoon brandy
Combine brown sugar and 1/2 cup half and half in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium high heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil; boil 4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter.
Add 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar and beat with mixer until smooth. Add brandy and remaining powdered sugar. (If mixture is not a nice spreading consistency, add additional half and half or powered sugar, as needed.)
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