These keto pecan crescents are soft, buttery cookies with a delicate crumb and a rich nutty flavor. I love how they recreate the classic holiday cookie experience while keeping everything low carb and gluten free. They feel festive, comforting, and perfect for sharing during special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it delivers the traditional taste and texture I expect from pecan crescents without using sugar or wheat flour. The cookies are not overly sweet, which allows the toasted pecans to stand out. I also appreciate how easy the dough is to work with and how well these cookies store and freeze, making them ideal for holiday planning and gift trays.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the cookies, I use
1 cup finely chopped pecans
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar replacement made with erythritol
1 large egg, at room temperature
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups almond flour
2 tablespoons coconut flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the vanilla glaze, I use
1 1/2 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sweetener
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream, plus more if needed
Optional toppings include keto sprinkles or additional finely chopped pecans.
Directions
I begin by preheating the oven to 325°F and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. I finely chop the pecans so the cookies hold together easily.
In a large bowl, I beat the softened butter with the sweetener until light and fluffy. I then mix in the egg and vanilla extract. Next, I add the almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing until a smooth dough forms. I gently stir in the chopped pecans.
I portion the dough into small balls about 3/4 inch in size, roll them between my palms, and shape each one into a crescent. I place them on the prepared baking sheets with space between each cookie.
I bake the cookies for 15 to 20 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. They are soft when they come out of the oven, so I let them cool completely on the baking sheet to firm up.
To make the glaze, I beat the cream cheese until smooth, then mix in the powdered sweetener and vanilla extract. I slowly beat in the heavy whipping cream until the glaze reaches a thin, spreadable consistency. Once the cookies are fully cooled, I spread the glaze over the tops and add toppings if desired.
Servings And Timing
This recipe makes about 40 cookies, with 2 cookies per serving.
I plan for approximately 45 minutes of preparation time, 18 minutes of baking time, and just over 1 hour total including cooling and glazing.
Variations
When I want a simpler version, I skip the glaze and lightly dust the cookies with powdered sweetener. I sometimes use a plain erythritol sweetener instead of a brown-style version for a more delicate flavor. If I want extra crunch, I add a few more chopped pecans on top before baking.
Storage/Reheating
I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. They freeze very well for several months. When frozen, I let them thaw at room temperature before serving. I do not reheat them, as their texture is best once cooled.
FAQs
Can these cookies be made ahead of time?
I often make them several days in advance or freeze them, since they hold their texture and flavor very well.
Do the cookies spread while baking?
They spread only slightly, which helps them keep their crescent shape without chilling the dough.
Why are the cookies soft right after baking?
I find this is normal. They firm up as they cool, so I always allow them to rest before handling.
Can I skip the glaze entirely?
I frequently skip it and simply finish the cookies with powdered sweetener for a classic look.
Can the dough be frozen before baking?
I freeze the dough tightly wrapped, then thaw it fully before shaping and baking as usual.
Conclusion
I love baking these keto pecan crescents because they combine tradition, flavor, and simplicity in one cookie. They are rich, tender, and full of pecan goodness, making them a favorite treat for holidays, gatherings, or a quiet moment with coffee.
