Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe

If you have a soft spot for buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, then let me introduce you to the charm of this Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe. These classic pecan sandies are delightfully crisp on the outside with a tender, crumbly texture inside, studded generously with toasted, nutty pecans. Every bite brings a perfect balance of sweet, rich flavors and that irresistible nutty crunch that makes these cookies an all-time favorite for holidays, tea times, or just everyday indulgence. Trust me, once you make these at home, store-bought cookies simply won’t compare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is made with a handful of simple but carefully chosen ingredients that work harmoniously to create the perfect cookie texture and flavor. Each component plays its role in delivering that unmistakable pecan sandy crumb with just the right amount of sweetness and buttery depth.

• Unsalted butter (1/2 lb., softened): Provides rich flavor and a tender crumb, essential for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Vegetable oil (1 cup): Keeps the cookies moist and adds to the delicate crumb without overpowering the butter’s flavor.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup) plus extra 1/2 cup for rolling: Sweetens while creating a light crisp exterior when rolled in sugar before baking.
• Confectioner’s sugar (1 cup, sifted): Adds fine sweetness and helps to create the sandy texture pecan sandies are beloved for.
• Large eggs (2): Acts as a binder and lends structure to the cookie dough.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Infuses the dough with warm, aromatic notes enhancing the overall flavor.
• All-purpose flour (4 cups, 500g): Forms the sturdy base of the dough, ensuring the perfect cakey crunch.
• Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps cookies rise slightly and maintain a tender texture.
• Cream of tartar (1 tsp): Offers a subtle tang that complements the buttery richness.
• Salt (1 tsp): Balances sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
• Chopped pecans (2 cups): The star ingredient, delivering that classic nutty crunch that defines pecan sandies.

How to Make Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect baking temperature for these delicate cookies. Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Cream the Fats and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and sifted confectioner’s sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is key to incorporating air and ensuring your sandies have that light texture while maintaining rich buttery flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with warm, comforting notes. This careful blending contributes to a smooth, cohesive dough that bakes evenly.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix into your wet ingredients, stirring gently but thoroughly to form a soft dough. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender and crumbly.

Step 5: Fold in the Pecans

Gently fold the chopped pecans into the dough, evenly distributing those chunks of toasted nuttiness. The pecans are the unmistakable hallmark of this Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe, adding texture and depth with every bite.

Step 6: Shape and Sugar Coat

Roll the dough into uniform 1-inch balls, then coat each generously with granulated sugar. This step creates a lightly crisp and sparkling outer shell that beautifully contrasts with the soft center.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the sugared dough balls on your prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow for gentle spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn a delicate light golden color, signaling that those buttery pecan sandies have reached their ideal texture.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes to set, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This final cooling step locks in their beautiful texture and makes them perfect for serving or storing.

How to Serve Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe

Garnishes

These cookies are charming enough on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate their appearance and bring added sweetness. A sprinkle of finely chopped pecans on top before baking also adds an inviting crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Homemade pecan sandies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a creamy glass of milk. For a festive gathering, serve alongside a plate of fresh fruit or a small cheese board to complement their buttery sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking these pecan sandies with layers of whipped cream and fresh berries for a simple, yet indulgent dessert parfait. They also make delightful party favors when wrapped in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon — a thoughtful, tasty gift for friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pecan sandies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to one week. Keeping them sealed ensures they maintain their signature crumbly texture without becoming stale or soft.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe fresh for longer, freezing is a great option. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to three months.

Reheating

To enjoy the cookies as if freshly baked, simply let frozen pecan sandies thaw at room temperature. If you prefer, a quick 5- to 10-second zap in the microwave or warming in a low oven (about 300°F) can revive their buttery softness and enhance the nutty aroma.

FAQs

What makes pecan sandies different from other cookies?

Pecan sandies are distinguished by their unique crumbly, sandy texture and the generous amount of chopped pecans baked into each cookie. Their buttery richness combined with the nutty crunch sets them apart from ordinary sugar or butter cookies.

Can I substitute butter with margarine or oil only?

While butter is essential for the rich flavor and tender crumb in this recipe, you can use vegetable oil alongside butter to keep the texture moist. Using only margarine or oil may alter the flavor and texture significantly and is not recommended for the best results.

How should I chop the pecans?

For this recipe, roughly chopped pecans work best. You want pieces that are small enough to mix evenly into the dough but large enough to provide that satisfying crunch in every bite.

Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted?

You can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand, but it’s best to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to prevent the cookies from becoming too salty.

Can I add other nuts or mix-ins?

Absolutely! While this Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe is classic with pecans, feel free to experiment by adding walnuts, almonds, or even mini chocolate chips to suit your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about baking cookies from scratch, especially with a recipe as time-tested and delightful as this Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe. The combination of buttery richness, sweet sugar coating, and crunchy pecans makes these cookies a favorite for sharing and savoring. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and discover just how wonderful these classic treats can be when made with love at home.

Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 60 cookies 1x

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Description

Homemade Pecan Sandies are classic buttery shortbread cookies loaded with toasted pecans and rolled in sugar for a delightful crunch. These tender and crumbly treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet everyday snack, offering a rich, nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

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Ingredients

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Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 lb. (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup confectioner’s sugar, sifted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cream of tartar
• 1 tsp salt

Add-ins

• 2 cups chopped pecans

For Rolling

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the cookies evenly.
2. Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and sifted confectioner’s sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, providing the base for the dough.
3. Incorporate eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to ensure proper emulsification, then mix in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt to evenly distribute the rising agents and seasoning.
5. Mix dry into wet: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough which can toughen the cookies.
6. Add pecans: Gently fold the chopped pecans into the dough to ensure even distribution without breaking the nuts further.
7. Shape and roll dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then coat each ball with granulated sugar to create a sweet, crunchy exterior.
8. Arrange on baking sheets: Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and allow for even spreading.
9. Bake cookies: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown, indicating they are perfectly baked but still tender inside.
10. Cool cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes to set, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely, preserving their crisp texture.

Notes

• Ensure butter is softened but not melted for best creaming results.
• Roll dough balls evenly to achieve uniform baking.
• Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to one week.
• Pecans can be toasted before chopping for enhanced flavor.
• Using parchment paper or silicone mats prevents sticking and eases cleanup.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American