Enjoy these buttery, nutty Pecan Sandies, a simple and satisfying cookie with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and delightful crunch!
Introduction
Pecan Sandies are a timeless cookie known for their buttery, crumbly texture and rich nutty flavor. Named for their “sandy” texture, these cookies have a unique, melt-in-your-mouth consistency that’s perfect with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Traditionally made with pecans, butter, and sugar, Pecan Sandies are easy to make and even easier to enjoy, embodying the simplicity and deliciousness of classic baking.
These cookies are popular for holiday baking but are delightful any time of year. The rich flavor of toasted pecans paired with a buttery base makes each bite a satisfying treat. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, Pecan Sandies are sure to be a hit in your home!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Directions
- Prepare the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix to combine.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Add the pecans: Fold in the chopped, toasted pecans until evenly distributed in the dough.
- Shape the cookies: Roll tablespoons of dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball with your hand or the back of a spoon to create a round cookie shape.
- Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Prepare
Making Pecan Sandies is as simple as mixing the dough, shaping the cookies, and baking them until golden. Toasting the pecans beforehand enhances their flavor, giving each cookie a richer, nuttier taste. Once baked, these cookies keep their delicate, crumbly texture and become even more flavorful over time.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Bake time: 15-18 minutes
- Total time: 30-35 minutes
Servings
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies, making it perfect for sharing or for enjoying over several days.
FAQs
- Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting the cookies. - How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, Pecan Sandies can stay fresh for up to a week. - Can I freeze Pecan Sandies?
Yes, you can freeze both the dough and the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw the cookies at room temperature before serving. - What can I use as a substitute for pecans?
Walnuts or almonds are good alternatives if you don’t have pecans on hand. - Why are they called “sandies”?
The “sandy” name comes from the crumbly, soft texture of the cookie, which resembles sand when you bite into it.
Conclusion
Pecan Sandies are a classic cookie with a simple yet satisfying flavor. The combination of butter, toasted pecans, and just the right amount of sweetness makes these cookies an elegant treat that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to make, easy to store, and even easier to enjoy with family and friends. Bake a batch today and indulge in the buttery, nutty goodness of these delightful Pecan Sandies!
