If you’re on the hunt for a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat that feels like a warm hug in cookie form, this Pecan Sandies Recipe is your new best friend. Rich with toasted pecans and a tender crumb that just crumbles deliciously with every bite, these classic cookies have a delightful balance of sweetness and nutty flavor. Whether you’re dipping them in tea or packing them up for a special occasion, these Pecan Sandies make every moment feel a little sweeter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pecan Sandies Recipe lies in its simplicity, with just a handful of essential ingredients that each play a vital role. From creamy butter crafting that soft texture to the perfectly crunchy pecans, every item contributes its own magic to the final cookie.
- Unsalted butter, 1 cup, softened: Gives the cookies their rich, melt-in-your-mouth softness and buttery flavor.
- Granulated sugar, ½ cup: Adds the classic sweet base that’s essential without overpowering.
- Light brown sugar, ¼ cup, packed: Brings a subtle molasses note for a deeper sweetness and tender texture.
- Large egg, 1: Helps bind all ingredients and adds moisture for perfect cookie structure.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Infuses that lovely warm aroma and enhances all the other flavors.
- Salt, ½ teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and highlights the buttery richness.
- All-purpose flour, 2 cups: The foundation of the cookie, providing the right amount of structure without heaviness.
- Chopped pecans, 1 cup: Offers an irresistible crunch and nutty depth — the star of this Pecan Sandies Recipe.
How to Make Pecan Sandies Recipe
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugars
Start by beating the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This process, taking about 5 to 7 minutes, is crucial because it traps air into the butter, which helps the cookies rise slightly and develop a wonderfully tender texture.
Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla
Once your butter-sugar blend is perfect, beat in the egg and vanilla extract. These add structure and that incredible vanilla warmth that makes the cookies inviting and flavorful.
Step 3: Combine Salt and Flour
Sprinkle in the salt to round out the flavors, then slowly add the all-purpose flour. Stir just until everything comes together — overmixing here can make the cookies tough, and we want soft, crumbly bites.
Step 4: Fold in the Pecans
Gently fold in the chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. These morsels provide delightful texture and add a nutty richness that defines the cookie.
Step 5: Shape and Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a 1 ½-inch thick log. Wrapping it tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap and chilling for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better) is a game-changer — it firms up the dough, making it easier to slice and helping flavors to marry beautifully.
Step 6: Slice and Bake
When you’re ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Remove the dough from the fridge and carefully slice into ½-inch thick rounds. Place the slices on an ungreased baking sheet with a little space between each. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges develop a subtle golden hue, signaling they’re perfectly baked.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This little rest lets them set up just right, so they hold together but still have that delicate crumble we all love in a Pecan Sandies Recipe.
How to Serve Pecan Sandies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies are fantastic on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a festive touch. You can also sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a subtle contrast that elevates the nutty flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your Pecan Sandies with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a creamy hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy snack. They also make a lovely accompaniment to a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elegant dessert treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, arrange these cookies on a platter alongside fresh fruit or other nutty treats. You can even sandwich two cookies together with a bit of chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting to make irresistible little cookie sandwiches that disappear in seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Pecan Sandies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This helps them stay fresh and maintain that perfect crumbly texture that makes these cookies so special.
Freezing
If you want to extend their life, freezing is your friend. Wrap the dough log tightly before slicing and freeze it for up to 3 months. You can also freeze baked cookies in an airtight container; just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
For that fresh-baked warmth, gently reheat the cookies in a low oven for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as this can make them too soft or chewy instead of beautifully tender and crumbly.
FAQs
Can I use toasted pecans instead of raw pecans?
Absolutely! Toasting the pecans beforehand will deepen their flavor and add a wonderful aroma. Just be sure to let them cool completely before folding them into the dough.
What makes these cookies called “Sandies”?
The name comes from their sandy, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth — thanks to the buttery dough and the finely chopped nuts.
Can I substitute butter with margarine or oil?
Butter is key for the rich flavor and tender texture in this recipe, so swapping it might alter the taste and consistency. If necessary, margarine might work, but oil is not recommended for this Pecan Sandies Recipe.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough for at least 4 hours is crucial to help the cookies hold their shape during baking. Using cold dough ensures they slice nicely and bake up with that perfect gentle rise.
Can I make these gluten-free?
You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but results might vary. Make sure your gluten-free flour mix includes xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Pecan Sandies Recipe enough for anyone who loves classic, buttery cookies with a nutty twist. It’s simple, rewarding, and makes your kitchen smell absolutely heavenly. Give it a try and watch these little gems become your go-to for sharing sweet moments with family and friends.
Print
Pecan Sandies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pecan Sandies are classic buttery, crumbly cookies loaded with chopped pecans. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are lightly sweetened and have a delicate texture, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. The dough is chilled for a few hours to enhance the flavor and texture, then sliced and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar for 5-7 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for your cookie dough.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and the vanilla extract to the creamed mixture until fully combined, ensuring the dough is smooth and homogeneous.
- Incorporate Salt and Flour: Stir in the salt, then gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing gently until just incorporated to avoid overworking the dough and maintain a tender texture.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans using a spatula or spoon, evenly distributing them throughout the dough for a delightful crunch in every bite.
- Shape and Chill Dough: Shape the dough into a log approximately 1½ inches thick. Wrap tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up the dough and enhance the flavors.
- Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the cookies evenly.
- Slice Dough: Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice into ½-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife, making uniform cookies for even baking.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the cookie rounds on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for a little spreading during baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown, indicating the cookies are perfectly baked with a tender crumb.
- Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, preserving their delicate texture.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, chill the dough overnight if possible.
- You can toast the pecans lightly before folding them in for extra depth of flavor.
- If desired, sprinkle a little extra sugar on top before baking for a slight crunch.
- Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- These cookies freeze well; freeze dough slices on a tray and then transfer to a bag for baking later.
