Pecan Sandies are a classic shortbread cookie, known for their buttery texture and rich, nutty flavor. These cookies are simple to make yet incredibly satisfying, making them a staple in any cookie lover’s repertoire. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet with your afternoon tea, Pecan Sandies are a perfect choice.
Why You’ll Love Pecan Sandies
Pecan Sandies are loved for their crumbly texture and the deep, toasty flavor of pecans. Unlike many other cookies, these are not overly sweet, allowing the buttery richness and the natural sweetness of the pecans to shine through. Their simplicity makes them versatile enough for any occasion, and they pair beautifully with a variety of beverages, from coffee to milk to a nice dessert wine.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a good shortbread cookie with a nutty twist. It’s also great for bakers of all skill levels because it’s straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients or techniques. If you enjoy cookies that are buttery, slightly crumbly, and packed with flavor, this Pecan Sandies recipe is for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cooling rack
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Beat in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine the Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add the Pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should be firm but not overly browned.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overmix: To achieve the perfect crumbly texture, be careful not to overmix the dough once you’ve added the flour. Overmixing can lead to a tougher cookie.
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft or sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before shaping the cookies. This will make it easier to roll and will help the cookies keep their shape during baking.
- Use Fresh Pecans: For the best flavor, use fresh pecans that haven’t gone rancid. You can lightly toast the pecans before chopping them to enhance their flavor even more.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate-Dipped Pecan Sandies: Once the cookies have cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let it set for a delicious chocolate-pecan combination.
- Coconut Pecan Sandies: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical twist on the classic recipe.
- Maple Pecan Sandies: Replace the granulated sugar with 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup and add 1/2 teaspoon of maple extract for a maple-infused version of these cookies.
How to Store Pecan Sandies
Pecan Sandies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pecan Sandies are perfect on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. For a more indulgent treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Pecan Sandies without nuts?
Yes, if you prefer a nut-free version, you can simply omit the pecans. The cookies will still have that classic buttery shortbread texture, though they will lose the nutty flavor.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies spread too much during baking, it could be because the butter was too warm. Chilling the dough before baking can help prevent this. Also, make sure to measure your flour correctly, as too little flour can cause the cookies to spread.
Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for a different flavor.
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