Pecan Sandies Recipe
Introduction
Are you craving a delicious, buttery and nutty treat? Look no further than these homemade Pecan Sandies cookies. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With their crumbly texture and rich pecan flavor, Pecan Sandies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow this easy recipe and enjoy the mouthwatering goodness of these classic cookies.
Ingredients
To make a batch of scrumptious Pecan Sandies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup finely chopped pecans
Steps
Follow these simple steps to create your own Pecan Sandies:
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add Vanilla Extract
Mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring it is well incorporated into the butter and sugar mixture.
Step 3: Combine Flour and Salt
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 4: Add Chopped Pecans
Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Take portions of the dough and shape them into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place the dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie for spreading.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough will help the cookies retain their shape during baking.
Step 7: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, indulge in the irresistible taste of homemade Pecan Sandies.
Variations
While the classic Pecan Sandies recipe is undeniably delicious, you can also experiment with some variations to add a unique twist to your cookies:
– Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
– Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a hint of warmth.
– Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of decadence.
Tips
Follow these helpful tips to ensure your Pecan Sandies turn out perfectly:
– Use room temperature butter for easier creaming with the sugars.
– Make sure to finely chop the pecans to ensure even distribution throughout the dough.
– Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture.
Conclusion
Pecan Sandies are a timeless classic that never fails to impress. With their delicate texture and rich nutty flavor, these cookies are bound to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or shared with loved ones, Pecan Sandies are sure to bring joy to any occasion. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to these irresistible homemade cookies?
FAQs
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: It’s best to use unsalted butter in this recipe to have better control over the salt content. If you only have salted butter, reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe.
Q: How long do these cookies stay fresh?
A: When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Pecan Sandies can stay fresh for up to one week.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the Pecan Sandies dough. Form the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the dough balls until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls onto a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use a different type of nut?
A: Absolutely! While pecans are traditional in Pecan Sandies, you can experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative?
A: Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute. However, the texture and taste may vary slightly from the original recipe.
