Start by creaming the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer until the texture becomes light and fluffy. Next, beat in the egg and vanilla, blending until smooth. 🎉

Sift your flour, baking soda, and salt together. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently to form a soft dough. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.

Now it’s time for the magic ingredient! Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. The nutty flavors will take the cookies to new heights. 🌰

Portion the dough into small balls using a cookie scoop or your hands. Spread them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For the best flavor and texture, cover the sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cookie dough for an hour. This step is crucial for achieving those perfect, chewy cookies. ❄️

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled cookies for about 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden while the centers remain slightly soft. The aroma wafting from your oven will be irresistible. 🍪

Once they’re out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and develop their full texture. Go ahead, take a bite while they’re still warm!