Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Pecan Sandies are classic buttery cookies that have a delicate, crumbly texture and a rich, nutty flavor thanks to the addition of pecans. These cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re serving them as a simple dessert after a meal, enjoying them with a cup of coffee, or giving them as a gift. The combination of butter, brown sugar, and toasted pecans creates a treat that is both satisfying and delightful. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making these delicious cookies, ensuring they turn out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The base of the cookies, providing richness and a soft texture.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cookie’s structure.
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar: Provides a deeper sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s chewy texture.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the bulk of the dough and gives the cookies their structure.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the cookies.
- 1 ½ cups coarsely chopped pecans, reserve ½ cup: The star ingredient, giving the cookies their distinctive nutty flavor and crunch.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using a handheld electric mixer on medium speed, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 2-5 minutes. The creaming step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, which helps the cookies achieve their tender texture.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour, salt, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture. Continue mixing until the ingredients are fully incorporated, forming a smooth dough. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
Step 4: Incorporate the Pecans
Once the dough is formed, stir in 1 cup of the chopped pecans. The pecans should be coarsely chopped to ensure that each bite of the cookie has a satisfying crunch. Reserve the remaining ½ cup of pecans for rolling the dough balls.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Using a 1 ½ tablespoon cookie scoop, measure out the dough and roll it into balls. This size ensures that each cookie will bake evenly. Roll each dough ball in the reserved chopped pecans, pressing gently to help the nuts adhere to the dough.
Step 6: Prepare the Cookies for Baking
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them to allow for even baking. Press the balls flat with the bottom of a glass or a Pyrex measuring cup. Flattening the dough helps the cookies bake evenly and achieve their characteristic sand-like texture.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 14-16 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. The cookies should be golden and fragrant, signaling that they are perfectly baked.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the cookies allows them to firm up and develop their full flavor.
Notes
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
- Variations: For a different flavor, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract in addition to the vanilla. You can also substitute walnuts for pecans if desired.
- Serving Suggestions: Pecan Sandies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They also make an excellent gift when packaged in a decorative tin.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutritional Facts (per cookie)
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.
2. Can I freeze the dough for later use? Absolutely! You can freeze the dough balls before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a ziplock bag. When ready to bake, add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking. Ensure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for best results.
4. How do I know when the cookies are done? The cookies are done when the edges are lightly browned. They may still look slightly soft in the center, but they will firm up as they cool.
5. Can I use other nuts besides pecans? Yes, walnuts or almonds are great alternatives to pecans. Each will bring a slightly different flavor and texture to the cookies.
Pecan Sandies are a delightful treat that brings together the rich, buttery flavor of shortbread with the nutty goodness of pecans. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy baking and sharing them with your loved ones!
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Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan Sandies are classic, buttery cookies with a crumbly texture and rich pecan flavor. These cookies are perfect for tea time, as a dessert, or even as a gift. The combination of butter, brown sugar, and toasted pecans creates a delightful and satisfying treat.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 ½ cups coarsely chopped pecans (reserve ½ cup for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a stand mixer or with a handheld mixer, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2-5 minutes).
- Add Dry Ingredients: Lower the mixer speed and add the flour, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
- Incorporate Pecans: Stir in 1 cup of the chopped pecans, reserving ½ cup for rolling.
- Shape the Dough: Roll the dough into 1 ½ tablespoon-sized balls and roll each ball in the reserved chopped pecans.
- Bake: Place the dough balls on the baking sheet, flatten them with the bottom of a glass, and bake for 14-16 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
- Variations: Add a teaspoon of almond extract for a different flavor or substitute walnuts for pecans.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe