Last Updated on January 23, 2022 by Kimberly Stroh

One of the most versatile ingredients is cream cheese. Using cream cheese in baking can add texture and a little zing of flavor. These Cream Cheese Pecan Finger Cookies have a slightly crunchy texture, nutty flavor and then they’re rolled in confectioner’s sugar to finish. The cream cheese allows the center to melt in your mouth and nobody can stop at one. My family asks me to make them every holiday season because they’re just so darn good.

What I love about this recipe is that most of the ingredients are ones you probably already have on hand during the holiday season. Living in Georgia means I have access to cheaper pecans than the rest of the country. I just keep them in the freezer, so they stay fresh, and just pull out what I need.

This recipe goes way back and my Grandmother made these type of finger cookies. Originally, they were meant to be enjoyed with afternoon tea, but I think they’re great anytime.

Looking for even more great cookie recipes for the holiday season? Here are some fan favorites:

• Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Sugar Cookies
• Classic Gingerbread Men Cookies
• Shortcut Baklava Cookies

How To Make Cream Cheese Pecan Finger Cookies

To make great cookies, you’ve got to have the right kitten tools. Cookies that turn out great are all thanks to technique. You can make the same recipe as someone else and have it turn out completely different. That starts with great baking trays and silicone baking mats. The silicone baking mats keeps the cookies from sticking to the tray and helps them bake evenly. 

What To Serve With Cream Cheese Pecan Finger Cookies

I love to enjoy these cookies with a fresh pot of coffee. They might’ve been for tea originally, but the nutty flavor pairs so well with coffee. I pair the cookies on a big dessert tray for the holiday season. Neighbors, friends and family all get a big cookie tray from me. Just be sure to wrap these cookies separately because of the confectioner’s sugar.

How To Keep Your Cream Cheese Pecan Finger Cookies Fresh

After your cookies have completely cooled, you want to store them in an air-tight container. They’ll stay fresh for 5-7 days without going stale. After that you can move them into the freezer. Keep them in the freezer for up to six months. Let them thaw again before serving.

What You Need From The Grocery Store:

• Butter
• Cream Cheese
• All-Purpose Flour
• Sugar
• Salt
• Chopped Pecans
• Confectioner’s Sugar

Step-By-Step Directions To Make Cream Cheese Pecan Finger Cookies

Preheat the oven to 375º. In a stand mixer (or small bowl) mix the butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy –  for 3-4 minutes. Beat in the vanilla.

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, sugar and salt. Gradually beat it into the creamed mixture. Stir in pecans. At this point the dough will be crumbly.

Shape by tablespoonfuls into 2-inch logs. Place 2-inches apart on a prepared baking sheet with silicone baking mat (or parchment paper). Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly browned.

Carefully toss the warm cookies into confectioners sugar to coat them. Cool on wire rack.