Pecan Sandies

Pecan sandies are a delightful treat that brings together the buttery goodness of shortbread with the rich crunch of pecans. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are especially popular during the holiday season but are equally enjoyable year-round. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and nutty flavor make them a standout on any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of pecan sandies in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of butter, sugar, and pecans creates a deliciously rich taste that everyone will love.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake fresh cookies whenever you want.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them plain, or add chocolate chips or dried fruits for extra flair!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your pecan sandies, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowl
• Plastic wrap
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugar quick and easy, ensuring a smooth dough.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Wire rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly, preventing sogginess from trapped steam.

Ingredients

Pecan sandies are buttery, crispy shortbread cookies with plenty of nutty pecan crunch. I love making these as Christmas cookies, and they’re just as good year-round!

Ingredients:
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) cold butter, cubed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ice water
– 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 cups all purpose flour
– 1 cup finely chopped pecans

How to Make Pecan Sandies

Step 1: Mix Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, mix the cold butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes until smooth.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the ice water, vanilla extract, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon. Mix for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Turn the mixer to low speed. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and finely chopped pecans. Mix until just combined.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Roll the dough into a 2-inch log. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour until chilled.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 6: Slice Cookies

Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Slice the log into half-inch rounds.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Place slices on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until lightly golden and set.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Transfer baked cookies to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before serving or storing.

How to Serve Pecan Sandies

Pecan sandies are delightful on their own, but serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate your experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these delicious cookies.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair your pecan sandies with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two pecan sandies to create an ice cream sandwich, adding a scoop of your favorite flavor in between.

Dipped in Chocolate

• Melt some chocolate and dip half of each cookie for an indulgent twist that enhances the nutty flavor.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange pecan sandies on a dessert platter alongside other cookies and sweets for a festive presentation.

Crumbled Over Yogurt

• Crumble pecan sandies over yogurt for a crunchy topping that adds sweetness and texture to your breakfast or snack.

How to Perfect Pecan Sandies

Getting perfectly baked pecan sandies takes a little practice. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right.

• Use cold butter: Starting with cold butter helps create that desired flaky texture in the cookies.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough before baking allows it to firm up, resulting in better-shaped cookies.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour and pecans; overmixing can make the cookies tough.
• Watch the oven: Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different, so remove them when they are lightly golden.
• Cool completely: Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack, which prevents sogginess and maintains crispness.

Best Side Dishes for Pecan Sandies

Pecan sandies can be paired with various side dishes that complement their buttery flavor. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast against the sweet cookies.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Dip your pecan sandies into warm chocolate fondue for an indulgent dessert experience.
4. Spiced Chai Latte: The warmth and spices of chai tea pair beautifully with the nutty flavors of pecan sandies.
5. Creamy Vanilla Pudding: A bowl of vanilla pudding serves as a delicious dip or side for these crispy treats.
6. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over each cookie for added sweetness and a gooey texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pecan Sandies, some common mistakes can affect the texture and flavor of your cookies. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Incorrect butter temperature: Using room temperature butter instead of cold can lead to a different texture. Always use cold, cubed butter for the best results.
• Overmixing the dough: This can make your cookies tough. Mix just until combined to keep them tender and crumbly.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the refrigeration step can result in cookies that spread too much while baking. Chill for at least one hour to maintain shape.
• Ignoring baking time: Baking too long will dry out your cookies. Keep an eye on them, looking for a light golden color as a sign they are done.
• Using stale pecans: Fresh pecans enhance flavor and crunch. Make sure your nuts are fresh for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pecan Sandies in an airtight container.
• They will keep fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pecan Sandies

• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze them for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Pecan Sandies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F and warm cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power in 10-15 second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Pecan Sandies that might help you perfect your baking experience.

How can I customize my Pecan Sandies?

You can add chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra flavor. Consider adding spices like nutmeg or swapping pecans for walnuts.

Can I use other nuts in Pecan Sandies?

Yes! While pecans are traditional, you can use walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for different flavors and textures.

Why are my Pecan Sandies spreading too much?

This usually happens if the dough wasn’t chilled properly. Always refrigerate it before slicing and baking to prevent excessive spreading.

How do I know when my Pecan Sandies are done?

Look for a light golden color around the edges. The centers may still look slightly soft but will firm up as they cool.

Can I make Pecan Sandies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that performs well in baking.

Final Thoughts

Pecan Sandies are delightful, buttery cookies that bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various nuts or mix-ins. Whether enjoyed during the holidays or year-round, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every crunchy bite!