Pecan Sandies
Pecan Sandies: A Delightful Treat
There’s something truly magical about a tray of freshly baked Pecan Sandies. Maybe it’s the rich, buttery dough or the crunch of toasted pecans that brings such warmth to every bite. These cookies evoke memories of cozy family gatherings and holiday festivities, making them the perfect addition to any occasion. Whether you’re enchanting kids with a cookie jar surprise or treating friends at a gathering, Pecan Sandies promise to deliver a soft yet delightful crunch that everyone will love.
Reasons to Try It
Why settle for store-bought cookies when you can whip up a batch of homemade Pecan Sandies? This recipe is quick, budget-friendly, and requires minimal, everyday ingredients. They’re perfect for family brunches, lovely afternoon teas, or even as a holiday cookie gift. Plus, the simplicity of the recipe means that even novice bakers can shine in the kitchen.
“These Pecan Sandies remind me of my grandmother’s kitchen! They’re buttery, sweet, and absolutely irresistible!” – A Satisfied Baker
Preparing Pecan Sandies
Making Pecan Sandies is a straightforward process that involves classic techniques. You’ll love how easily these cookies come together! Start with creaming your butters and sugars, then adding in your other key ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in the joy it brings when you’re enjoying the delicious final product. Here’s how you can make these delectable cookies:
What You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients will set the stage for deliciousness. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 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
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider swapping the pecans for walnuts or even adding chocolate chips for an extra twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together with a stand mixer or an electric hand mixer. Cream until fluffy and well blended, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes until you have a pale yellow mixture.
Next, incorporate 1 large egg, mixing until well blended (about 1 minute). Then, add in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
Gently fold in ¾ cup of chopped pecans.
Gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour along with ¼ teaspoon salt until combined.
Once the dough is ready, roll it into a log shape and wrap it with wax paper. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight, for the best flavor.
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and discard the wax paper. Slice the dough into ½-inch thick rounds.
Place the slices on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake for about 12-15 minutes until the cookies are golden.
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to finish cooling.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Pecan Sandies offer delightful versatility when it comes to serving. They’re perfect on their own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee, or even drizzle them with a little melted chocolate for an indulgent treat. If you’re feeling creative, try stacking them with whipped cream and fresh berries for a unique dessert presentation.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To keep your Pecan Sandies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week! If you have extra dough, consider freezing it. Just wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies anytime.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To elevate your Pecan Sandies, try these tips:
- Make sure your butter is truly at room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Experiment with different nuts or add-ins, like chocolate or dried cranberries, for a unique twist.
- For a softer cookie, take them out just as the edges begin to turn golden.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? There are many ways to customize your Pecan Sandies:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice flavor.
- Swap out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
- Incorporate a bit of orange zest for a refreshing citrus note.
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for Pecan Sandies?
The preparation time is about 20 minutes, but remember to account for the chilling time of at least 4 hours.
Can I substitute the nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to use walnuts, almonds, or even skip the nuts altogether if you prefer a nut-free version.
How do I store Pecan Sandies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze the dough for longer storage.
Pecan Sandies are more than just cookies; they’re a sweet experience that transports you to cherished moments. Happy baking, and enjoy every crumb!
Pecan Sandies
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together with a stand mixer or an electric hand mixer. Cream until fluffy and well blended, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Incorporate the egg and mix until well blended, about 1 minute. Then, add in the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until combined.
- Roll the dough into a log shape, wrap it with wax paper, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and discard the wax paper. Slice the dough into ½-inch thick rounds.
- Place the slices on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake for about 12-15 minutes until the cookies are golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
