Name: Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Cookie Dough: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened), 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, Add-ins: 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re a fan of buttery, nutty cookies that melt in your mouth, you’re in for a true treat with these Homemade Pecan Sandies! Each bite brings a heavenly balance of tender shortbread and rich toasted pecans, making these cookies the star of any dessert table. Whether you’re baking them for a special celebration, gifting a batch to friends, or simply treating yourself, Homemade Pecan Sandies deliver a satisfying crunch and a warmth that just feels like home. Get your mixing bowls ready – these are about to become your new cookie jar favorite!

Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Homemade Pecan Sandies is in their simplicity – each ingredient serves a specific and important purpose, coming together for a cookie that’s rich in flavor and satisfying in texture. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why each item is essential.

Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): The foundation for that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and lush, buttery flavor.
Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup): Adds structure and crispness, giving the cookies the perfect sweet finish.
Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup): Contributes to the delicate crumb and dissolves easily, making the cookies extra tender.
Large Egg (1): Helps bind the dough and adds richness for a cookie that holds together but stays soft.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances the overall flavor, bringing a warm, inviting aroma to every batch.
All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Gives the cookies structure and classic shortbread texture, ensuring every bite is just right.
Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds the perfect lift so the cookies aren’t too dense.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Intensifies the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
Finely Chopped Pecans (1 1/2 cups): The hero of these sandies, lending nutty flavor and irresistible crunch in every bite.

How to Make Homemade Pecan Sandies

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheets and Preheat the Oven

Start by lining two baking sheets with parchment paper and preheating your oven to 350°F. This small step keeps your Homemade Pecan Sandies from sticking and ensures an even bake, so the cookies come off with beautifully golden bottoms.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar. Beat them together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy – this adds air, giving your sandies that lovely, tender texture. Don’t rush this step; it’s the secret to their irresistible crumb!

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated. This step binds the dough together and infuses every cookie with a sweet, aromatic depth. You’ll notice the dough start to look glossy and smooth.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these beforehand evenly distributes the leavening and seasoning, so every bite of your Homemade Pecan Sandies tastes just right.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps the cookies tender, crumbly, and absolutely delicious.

Step 6: Fold in the Pecans

Now, for the best part – stir in those finely chopped pecans! Make sure they’re evenly distributed for consistent crunch and nutty flavor throughout each cookie. Toasted pecans add an even richer flavor, so don’t hesitate to toast them lightly beforehand.

Step 7: Shape and Flatten the Cookies

Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them a couple of inches apart on your prepared baking sheets, then gently flatten each ball with your palm or the bottom of a glass. This shape yields that traditional, home-baked look everyone loves in Homemade Pecan Sandies.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, keeping an eye out for the edges to turn lightly golden. If you prefer your cookies crisper, bake them for an extra minute or two. Let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures they set up just right.

How to Serve Homemade Pecan Sandies

Garnishes

For a show-stopping finish, try dusting your Homemade Pecan Sandies with a touch of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans. You can also dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for an elegant twist—perfect for parties or special gifts!

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk. For dessert platters, serve them alongside fresh fruit or creamy vanilla ice cream to balance their nutty richness with something light and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re giving Homemade Pecan Sandies as a gift or serving them at a holiday gathering, consider packaging them in kraft boxes or clear bags tied with ribbon. Stack them high on a beautiful platter, or place them in paper cupcake liners for an extra-special touch. These cookies also look gorgeous arranged in a circle with a bowl of caramel or chocolate sauce in the center for dipping fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Homemade Pecan Sandies fresh and flavorful, store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay perfect for up to a week, holding onto their buttery texture and nutty crunch. Slide a slice of bread into the container to absorb moisture and keep them crisp!

Freezing

You can freeze either unbaked dough balls or fully baked cookies for easy treat prep ahead of time. Lay them out on a baking sheet to flash-freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. Just allow baked cookies to thaw at room temperature or bake dough balls straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the bake time.

Reheating

If you love that just-baked taste, warm a Homemade Pecan Sandie in a low oven (about 300°F) for a few minutes until fragrant and slightly crisped. Avoid microwaving to keep the cookies from getting overly soft—just a gentle oven reheat brings them right back to life!

FAQs

Can I substitute walnuts or other nuts for pecans?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional and deliver that classic taste, walnuts or even almonds can be swapped in easily. Just make sure to chop them finely to keep the cookies’ texture consistent. The flavor will be a little different, but still delicious!

Do I need to toast the pecans before baking?

It’s optional, but toasting your pecans enhances their nutty flavor and adds a new depth of richness to your Homemade Pecan Sandies. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake for about 5 minutes at 350°F until fragrant and lightly golden—just let them cool before adding to your dough!

Can I make the dough ahead and refrigerate it?

Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time; wrap it well and refrigerate for up to 48 hours. Cold dough bakes up with slightly thicker cookies, which some people really love. Just let it sit out for about 10 minutes before scooping and shaping so it’s easier to handle.

Why are my cookies crumbly or dry?

Overbaking is the most common culprit! Make sure you pull your cookies when they’re just lightly golden at the edges—they’ll finish setting as they cool. Also, be sure to measure your flour carefully to avoid packing in too much, which can dry out the dough.

How long do Homemade Pecan Sandies stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, freezing is a great option—just thaw as needed and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Baking Homemade Pecan Sandies fills your kitchen with cozy, irresistible aromas and your heart with joy. There’s something truly special about sharing these perfectly tender, nutty cookies with family and friends—or keeping a stash all for yourself! Give these a try, and get ready for your new favorite cookie to steal the spotlight at every occasion.

Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 22 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 29 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Homemade Pecan Sandies are buttery, nutty, and perfect for any occasion. With a delicate crumb and a rich pecan flavor, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough:

1 cup unsalted butter (softened), 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt,

Add-ins:

1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Stir in pecans: Fold in the chopped pecans.
Shape and bake: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, place on baking sheets, flatten, and bake for 12 to 14 minutes until lightly golden.
Cool and enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.