Pecan Sandies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
room temperature
- ½ cup granulated white sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup chopped pecans
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Directions
- 1
In a large mixing bowl using a stand mixer with paddle attachment or an electric hand mixer with beaters attached, cream butter and sugar until fluffy and completely blended, about 5 to 7 minutes, the mixture will be a pale yellow.
- 2
Beat in the egg until blended, about 1 minute, and then the vanilla extract.
- 3
Fold in the pecans.
- 4
Gently mix in the flour.
- 5
Remove dough and roll into a log.
- 6
Cover with a piece of wax paper and refrigerate for at least 4 hours up to overnight. (see notes if you want to freeze the dough for later)
- 7
Preheat oven to 350°F/177°C.
- 8
Remove dough from the fridge and discard the wax paper.
- 9
Slice the cookie dough into ½ inch slices.
- 10
Place on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- 11
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes. Cookies will be golden.
- 12
Remove from the oven. Let cool slightly. Transfer to a cooling rack to finish cooling.
Pecan Sandies
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About this Recipe
Searching for that perfect buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie that brings a smile to everyone's face? These easy-to-prepare Pecan Sandies are your answer, delivering an irresistible nutty sweetness that's always a hit at any gathering.
What makes these classic cookies truly special is their delightful simplicity combined with incredibly rich flavor. The foundation of softened unsalted butter, along with a thoughtful blend of granulated and light brown sugars, creates a deeply tender crumb. Add in the generous ¾ cup of chopped pecans and a hint of pure vanilla extract, and you get a cookie that’s profoundly satisfying. They're effortlessly delicious and incredibly reliable, making them a go-to for any occasion where you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Prepare for a truly delightful cookie experience that lives up to its name. Each bite of these Pecan Sandies offers a wonderful sensory journey: the smooth, creamy sweetness from the butter and sugars melts on your tongue, followed by the comforting warmth of pure vanilla. The star, of course, is the satisfying crunch and earthy notes of the pecans, perfectly distributed throughout. Their unique, delicate sandy texture practically dissolves in your mouth, leaving behind a lingering, rich flavor that expertly balances sweet and savory. You'll find them incredibly satisfying, yet wonderfully light.
While the classic pecan is, for many, the heart of these sandies, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit different tastes or pantry staples. For a distinct nutty twist, consider swapping out the pecans for finely chopped walnuts or almonds, or even a mix of your favorite nuts. If you prefer a nut-free option, simply omit the pecans entirely for a wonderfully buttery plain shortbread-style cookie that’s equally delicious. You could also explore adding a pinch of cinnamon or a touch of almond extract to the dough for extra aromatic depth.
These irresistible cookies are designed for sharing and celebration. They make a perfect addition to family gatherings, are a beloved treat for your next Christmas cookie exchange, or a welcome, crowd-pleasing contribution to any potluck. Serve them alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon moment, or as an elegant, simple dessert after any meal.