How to Make Delicious Pecan Sandies
There’s something about pecan sandies that just feels comforting and delightful. Maybe it’s the nutty crunch of pecans mixed with the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the shortbread, but whatever it is, it’s undeniable that these cookies are a crowd favorite. If you’ve never tried making them at home or if you’re looking for a foolproof recipe to follow, you’re in luck! Today, I’m going to share with you a simple yet incredibly satisfying way to bake delicious pecan sandies right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
Before we dive into the steps, let’s make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on your counter:
- 1 cup (or 2 sticks) of unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of chopped pecans
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (about 175°C). While your oven is warming up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will prevent your cookies from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine your softened butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the mixture on medium speed until it’s light and fluffy. This process introduces air into the butter, making your cookies light and tender.
- Add Vanilla and Mix Dry Ingredients
Next, pour the vanilla extract into your butter and sugar mixture and stir well. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients (flour and salt mixture) to your wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until everything is nicely incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cookies tough.
- Fold in the Pecans
Once your dough is ready, gently fold in the chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. If you’re a pecan lover, feel free to add a bit more for that extra crunch!
- Shape and Bake
Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one. Slightly flatten each ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies start to turn a lovely golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Cool and Enjoy
Once the cookies are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. While it may be tempting, try to resist the urge to eat them all right away, as they’re even more delightful once they’ve cooled down a bit.
Tips:
- Butter Matters: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best results. This makes it easier to cream with the sugar and ensures that your cookies have the perfect texture.
- Customize It: Feel free to add your twist to these cookies by mixing in a bit of cinnamon or swapping half of the pecans for chocolate chips.
- Storing: These cookies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, making them perfect for snacking or sharing with friends and family.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe for pecan sandies is sure to impress. Not only are these cookies delicious, but they’re also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can have a batch of warm, nutty, and buttery cookies that are perfect for any occasion. So why wait? Preheat that oven and start baking; delicious pecan sandies await!
