Pecan Sandies

Buttery, nutty, and utterly delicious, Pecan Sandies are the perfect treat for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, participating in a Christmas cookie exchange, or attending a potluck, these cookies are sure to impress. Their unique texture and rich flavor make them a standout choice for dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies can be whipped up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery goodness and crunchy pecans creates an irresistible taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for various occasions, Pecan Sandies can be served at celebrations or enjoyed as an everyday snack.
• Make Ahead Option: The dough can be refrigerated or frozen, allowing you to prepare it in advance for convenience.
• Perfectly Golden: Bake them until golden brown for that crunchy exterior with a soft center—just how cookies should be!

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Pecan Sandies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wax paper
• Cookie sheet
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer: These tools help achieve a fluffy texture by thoroughly creaming the butter and sugars together efficiently.
• Mixing bowls: A good-size mixing bowl allows enough space to combine ingredients without making a mess.
• Cookie sheet: Using an ungreased cookie sheet ensures even baking and easy removal of your delicious cookies.

Ingredients

For these delightful Pecan Sandies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¾ cup chopped pecans
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

How to Make Pecan Sandies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl using a stand mixer with paddle attachment or an electric hand mixer with beaters attached, cream together:
1. 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
2. ½ cup granulated sugar
3. ¼ cup light brown sugar

Beat until fluffy and completely blended (about 5 to 7 minutes); the mixture will turn pale yellow.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add:
1. 1 large egg
2. 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Beat until blended (about 1 minute).

Step 3: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in:
– ¾ cup chopped pecans

Step 4: Mix in Flour and Salt

Carefully mix in:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– ¼ teaspoon salt

Step 5: Form the Dough Log

Remove dough from the mixer and roll into a log shape.

Step 6: Refrigerate the Dough

Cover the dough with wax paper and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F/177°C.

Step 8: Slice the Dough

Remove dough from refrigeration, discard wax paper, and slice into ½ inch thick pieces.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Place slices on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes until golden.

Step 10: Cool Before Serving

Remove from oven, let cool slightly before transferring to a cooling rack to finish cooling.

With these easy-to-follow steps, you’re on your way to enjoying homemade Pecan Sandies that everyone will love!

How to Serve Pecan Sandies

Pecan Sandies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether sharing them at gatherings or savoring them at home, these cookies offer endless serving possibilities.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy a couple of Pecan Sandies with your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a comforting snack that pairs perfectly with warm beverages.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create delightful ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two Pecan Sandies for a refreshing dessert.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or apples to add a burst of sweetness and balance the rich flavors of the cookies.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange Pecan Sandies on a dessert platter with other cookies and treats for an inviting display at parties or potlucks.

Dipped in Chocolate

• Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat that’s sure to impress guests.

How to Perfect Pecan Sandies

Creating the perfect batch of Pecan Sandies takes just a bit of care and attention. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out amazing every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough not only enhances flavor but also helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.

• Measure Flour Properly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid overpacking flour, which can lead to dry cookies.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to maintain a tender texture in your cookies.

• Bake Until Golden: Watch for a light golden color; overbaking can lead to dry cookies, while underbaking may result in doughy centers.

Best Side Dishes for Pecan Sandies

Pecan Sandies complement various side dishes beautifully. Here are some great options to consider when serving these delicious cookies.

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs wonderfully, offering savory notes that contrast with sweet flavors.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light, healthy side that complements the cookies well.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Serve with fresh fruits and marshmallows for dipping alongside your Pecan Sandies for an interactive dessert experience.
5. Nut Mix: A blend of roasted nuts provides crunch and pairs nicely with the nutty flavor of the cookies.
6. Coffee Cake: Serve with slices of moist coffee cake for an indulgent afternoon treat that complements both flavors well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pecan Sandies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using Cold Butter: Starting with cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Always use room temperature butter for the best texture.
• Not Measuring Flour Properly: Over-measuring flour can make your cookies dry. Use the scoop and level method for accurate measurements.
• Skipping Refrigeration: Failing to refrigerate the dough can result in spreading cookies. Always chill for at least 4 hours to maintain shape.
• Overbaking: Cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet after removal. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they are just golden.
• Ignoring Nut Quality: Using stale or low-quality nuts can affect the flavor. Always choose fresh, high-quality pecans for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pecan Sandies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pecan Sandies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pecan Sandies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10 seconds for a soft texture.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a minute or two, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Pecan Sandies that might help you.

What are Pecan Sandies?

Pecan Sandies are buttery cookies filled with chopped pecans, offering a nutty flavor and delightful crunch that makes them perfect for any occasion.

How do I make Pecan Sandies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Pecan Sandies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking.

Can I add chocolate chips to my Pecan Sandies?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips enhances the flavors beautifully. Mix them in along with the pecans before baking.

How long do Pecan Sandies last?

When stored properly, Pecan Sandies can last up to a week in the refrigerator or three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

These Pecan Sandies are incredibly appealing due to their rich buttery flavor and crunchy texture. They are versatile enough to be enjoyed as snacks or as part of dessert platters. Feel free to customize them by adding chocolate chips or using different nuts!