If you’re on the lookout for a timeless treat to warm up your kitchen and your heart, this Pecan Sandies Recipe is exactly what you need. These buttery, tender cookies studded with toasted pecans deliver the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, making them an irresistible classic. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, gifting to friends, or indulging your own sweet tooth, these melt-in-your-mouth delights are sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients come together effortlessly in this Pecan Sandies Recipe, creating a cookie that’s irresistibly tender and rich. Each component plays a vital role in building texture, flavor, and that signature buttery crumb.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): The star ingredient that ensures richness and a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Offers just the right touch of sweetness and a subtle crunch.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds smooth sweetness and helps create that soft, sandy texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds moisture for a soft bite.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the cookies with warm, comforting notes that elevate the flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the cookie base, providing structure and that perfect melt-away texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds a touch of lift for a light crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the rich butter and pecan flavors.
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans: Bring a delightful crunch and nutty complexity to the recipe.
How to Make Pecan Sandies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This preparation sets the stage for perfectly baked cookies with minimal fuss.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is key to creating a tender texture in your cookies, as it incorporates air into the dough for that signature “sandies” softness.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. These ingredients add moisture, richness, and a lovely aromatic quality that fills your kitchen with a comforting scent as you bake.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt together. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can toughen the dough, so be gentle to maintain the delicate crumb.
Step 5: Fold in Pecans
Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. Toasting the pecans beforehand is a brilliant tip if you want to enhance their nutty flavor.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press each ball down slightly with your fingers or the bottom of a glass to form discs. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, watching for the edges to just begin turning golden. This timing creates cookies that have a soft center with slightly crisp edges.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let your Pecan Sandies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important to prevent breakage and ensure the perfect texture every time.
How to Serve Pecan Sandies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are divine on their own, you can elevate them by dusting with a little extra powdered sugar for a festive touch. For a subtle flavor twist, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top before baking to add warm undertones.
Side Dishes
Pair your Pecan Sandies with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a classic combination. They also complement creamy desserts like vanilla pudding or rich hot chocolate, creating a cozy, indulgent experience that’s perfect on chilly days.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these cookies in a decorative tin or stack them with parchment paper in a glass jar as a thoughtful homemade gift. You can also sandwich them with flavored buttercream or cream cheese frosting to turn them into an elegant petite treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Pecan Sandies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delightful for up to one week, maintaining their tender crumb and fresh pecan flavor.
Freezing
This Pecan Sandies Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months and thaw gently at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
If you love your cookies warm, pop them in a preheated 300°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh their crisp edges and warm, buttery interior. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the texture less satisfying.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts make great alternatives and can add a unique twist to the classic Pecan Sandies Recipe. Just ensure they are finely chopped and toasted for the best flavor.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Try swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Be sure to check that the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the cookies tender and crumbly.
Why do my Pecan Sandies sometimes turn out hard?
Overbaking or using too much flour can cause a harder texture. Keep an eye on the cookies during baking and remove them once the edges start to turn golden for that perfect tender snap.
Is it necessary to use both granulated and powdered sugar?
Yes, the combination of sugars plays a vital role. Granulated sugar adds a slight crunch, while powdered sugar helps create the classic sandy texture and softness.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This also helps the flavors meld beautifully and can improve texture.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got this wonderful Pecan Sandies Recipe in your baking arsenal, I hope you enjoy every buttery, nutty bite as much as I do. These cookies are a timeless classic that bring a little warmth and sweetness to any occasion. So grab your mixing bowl, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to some homemade love today.
Print
Pecan Sandies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan Sandies are classic buttery shortbread cookies with a delicate crumb and a rich nutty flavor from finely chopped pecans. Perfect for holiday baking or any time you crave a sweet, tender treat, these cookies balance the sweetness of sugar with the toasted crunch of pecans for an irresistible snack.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which provides a tender texture in the cookies.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until fully combined for a moist dough base.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Combine Dry and Wet: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough and ensure tender cookies.
- Fold in Pecans: Fold the finely chopped pecans into the dough to evenly distribute the nuts throughout the batter for their distinct crunch and flavor.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll each into a ball, and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each cookie slightly with your fingers or the bottom of a glass for even baking and classic shape.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden, indicating they are perfectly baked and tender inside.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they hold their shape and texture.
Notes
- For a crispier texture, bake the cookies a few minutes longer until edges are golden brown.
- Toast the pecans lightly beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
- These cookies also freeze well; freeze in an airtight container and thaw at room temperature before serving.
