Pecan Sandies

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Pecan Sandies are the kind of cookie that instantly take you back to simpler times. Buttery, crumbly, and packed with toasted pecans, these treats are like shortbread’s Southern cousin. Perfect for gifting or serving with a cup of coffee, they bring a cozy warmth to any occasion. With their lightly golden edges and tender texture, every bite is rich, nutty, and just sweet enough.

Whether you’re baking a batch for the holidays, a family get-together, or just because you’re craving something nostalgic, Pecan Sandies deliver. These cookies are as satisfying to make as they are to eat, filling your kitchen with a warm, nutty aroma that hints at the deliciousness to come.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Sandies Recipe

This recipe nails the perfect balance of crisp and tender. The buttery base melts in your mouth, while the pecans offer a gentle crunch in every bite. There’s no complicated technique or chill time, which means more time enjoying the cookies and less time waiting. Plus, they store beautifully, making them ideal for make-ahead desserts or edible gifts.

What Makes a Great Pecan Sandy Cookie?

The key lies in the fat-to-flour ratio and the quality of your butter. Using real butter gives the cookies their signature richness. Toasting the pecans first intensifies their flavor and adds a delightful depth. Finally, the texture should be crumbly yet moist—not dry or overly crisp.

Ingredients for the Pecan Sandies

What makes pecan sandies so special is the simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly satisfying. Every component plays a role in flavor or texture, so quality matters here.

• Unsalted Butter
• Granulated Sugar
• Brown Sugar
• Vanilla Extract
• All-Purpose Flour
• Chopped Pecans
• Salt

Unsalted Butter is the base of the dough and provides that unmistakable richness.

Granulated Sugar brings sweetness and helps the cookies spread just enough.

Brown Sugar adds moisture and a subtle caramel undertone that complements the nuts.

Vanilla Extract rounds out the flavors with warmth and depth.

All-Purpose Flour gives the structure without weighing down the cookie.

Chopped Pecans offer that essential crunch and nutty character.

Salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.

How To Make the Pecan Sandies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast in the oven at 350°F for 7-8 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool completely before adding to the dough.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step sets up the base texture of the cookies.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Mix

Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until combined. You’ll start to smell that warm aroma building already.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Slowly add in the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix until just combined; don’t overwork the dough.

Step 5: Fold in the Pecans

Use a spatula or your hands to gently fold in the toasted pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Slightly flatten each one with your palm or the bottom of a glass. Bake at 350°F for 14-16 minutes or until the edges are just golden.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve and Store Your Pecan Sandies

These cookies are best served with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. They shine on holiday cookie platters and make thoughtful gifts wrapped in a tin or box. This recipe makes about 24 cookies, perfect for sharing.

To store them, let the cookies cool completely and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just thaw before serving. They hold up beautifully without losing texture or flavor.

What to Serve With Pecan Sandies?

Hot Coffee or Espresso

The buttery richness of pecan sandies pairs incredibly well with a strong brew.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Crumble them over a scoop for a simple but decadent dessert.

Fruit Compote

The tartness of fruit balances the sweet nuttiness of the cookie.

Spiced Tea

Chai or cinnamon tea plays nicely with the warm, toasty flavors.

Creamy Hot Chocolate

Especially during the holidays, this pairing is a cozy crowd-pleaser.

Whipped Cream Dip

Serve with a soft vanilla or caramel whipped dip for a cookie tray upgrade.

Berries and Cream

Make a mini dessert plate by combining berries, whipped cream, and these cookies.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these pecan sandies, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Ooey Gooey Bars for an ultra-sweet, chewy bite.
• Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons if you’re into tropical flair and chewy textures.
• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes that combine classic comfort with creamy indulgence.
• Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread for more pecan goodness in a soft, cake-like form.
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars when you want buttery crunch and chocolate in every bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toast your pecans or skip it? Maybe you added a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more dessert favorites on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to treat for any season!

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