Pecan Sandies are buttery, crumbly cookies loaded with the rich flavor of toasted pecans. These classic treats are a delight to savor, with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and nutty aroma. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea, gifting them during the holidays, or simply indulging in a nostalgic favorite, Pecan Sandies are guaranteed to bring comfort and joy to your table.
The magic of these cookies lies in their simplicity. The dough comes together with pantry staples like butter, sugar, and flour, while the pecans provide an earthy sweetness and crunch. Lightly toasting the cookies in the oven creates a golden hue and enhances the pecans’ nutty flavor. The result is a perfectly balanced cookie that’s both tender and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Buttery Perfection: Each cookie has a rich, buttery base that melts in your mouth.
• Nutty Goodness: Pecans are the star, providing crunch and depth of flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, it’s an easy recipe to whip up anytime.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Pecans:
• 1 ½ cups coarsely chopped pecans (reserve ½ cup for rolling)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
1. Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or a handheld electric mixer on medium speed, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar together.
2. Continue mixing for 2-5 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
1. Lower the mixer speed to low and add the flour, salt, and vanilla extract.
2. Beat until just combined.
Step 4: Add the Pecans
1. Reduce the mixer speed to stir and gently fold in 1 cup of the chopped pecans, reserving ½ cup for rolling the cookies later.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
1. Use a 1½-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion the dough evenly.
2. Roll each portion into a ball, then roll it through the reserved chopped pecans to coat.
Step 6: Flatten and Arrange
1. Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them for air circulation.
2. Flatten each ball using the flat bottom of a glass or a measuring cup.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
1. Bake the cookies for 14-16 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
2. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips
• Room Temperature Butter: Ensure the butter is softened for easy creaming.
• Rolling the Dough: Rolling the cookies in pecans not only enhances the nutty flavor but also gives a delightful texture.
• Check for Doneness: Look for lightly golden edges as an indicator that the cookies are ready.
Storage Options
• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Pecan Sandies are perfect for any occasion, from tea time to holiday gatherings. They’re as elegant as they are delicious!
