Pecan Sandies are the epitome of simplicity and deliciousness. With their crispy texture, buttery flavor, and the satisfying crunch of pecans, these cookies are the perfect companion to a warm cup of tea or coffee. While they may not have the flair of chocolate-filled cookies or decorated treats, they hold their own as a classic favorite.
These cookies have a rich, buttery flavor with just the right amount of nuttiness. They’re not overly sweet, making them an excellent choice for those who enjoy more subtle flavors. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a cookie exchange, or just because, Pecan Sandies are always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love Pecan Sandies
- Buttery, Crispy Texture: These cookies are crunchy with a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Perfect Pairing with Drinks: Their subtle flavor complements tea, coffee, or milk wonderfully.
- Holiday Giftable: Pecan Sandies are easy to package and make excellent homemade gifts for friends and family during the holidays or any time of year.
- Simple Yet Irresistible: A shortbread-like base with the crunch of pecans, these cookies are simple but incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients for Pecan Sandies
These cookies require just a few basic ingredients, but the results are nothing short of amazing:
- Unsalted Butter: Softened to room temperature for easy mixing and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness without overpowering the buttery flavor.
- Ice Water: A small amount to help bring the dough together.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- Ground Cinnamon: Adds a hint of warmth and spice that perfectly complements the pecans.
- All-Purpose Flour: The base for the dough.
- Pecans (or Walnuts): Finely chopped for that nutty crunch. Pecans are ideal, but walnuts work well too.
- Vanilla Extract: For a touch of sweetness and flavor depth.
How to Make Pecan Sandies
Making these cookies is simple and straightforward, with minimal steps for maximum flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. - Add Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the ice water, salt, cinnamon, flour, finely chopped pecans (or walnuts), and vanilla extract. Mix the dough until just combined. Be careful not to overwork it; the dough will be a bit crumbly, but that’s okay. - Chill the Dough
Cover the dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a zip-top plastic bag. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is important for making the dough easier to work with. - Shape the Dough
Once the dough is chilled, take it out of the fridge. Firmly roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Since the dough is a bit crumbly, press it together well to help the dough hold its shape. - Flatten the Dough Balls
Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use a flat-bottomed glass to gently press each ball to about 1/2-inch thick. Alternatively, you can shape them into crescent shapes for a fun variation. - Bake
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the cookies for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. - Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy with your favorite drink!
Storage Tips
Pecan Sandies store well, so you can keep a batch on hand for a few days:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 1 month. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Dough Storage: The dough can be chilled for a few days before baking. You can also shape the dough into a roll, chill it, and slice it as needed for baking.
Conclusion: A Timeless Favorite
These Pecan Sandies cookies are an ideal balance of buttery goodness and nutty crunch. Simple yet delightful, they are perfect for sharing during the holidays or enjoying with a cup of coffee on a cozy afternoon. The light cinnamon flavor adds a warmth that makes these cookies even more irresistible. Whether for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, these Pecan Sandies are a must-bake!