The first time I baked Pecan Sandies, I was instantly reminded of the cookies my grandmother used to keep in a tin on her kitchen counter. Buttery, nutty, and just the right amount of crisp, these cookies are as comforting as they are delicious. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and toasted pecan flavor, they’re perfect for holiday cookie trays, afternoon tea, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee.
What I love most about pecan sandies is their simplicity. They don’t require fancy ingredients or complicated steps—just a few pantry staples and a generous handful of pecans. The result is a timeless cookie that feels both elegant and nostalgic. They’re a must-bake during the holidays, but honestly, I make them year-round because they disappear almost as quickly as I can bake them.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Pecan Sandies are buttery, nutty, and crisp in all the right ways. The toasted pecans add a deep, rich flavor, while the buttery dough creates that classic shortbread-like texture. They’re not overly sweet, which makes them perfect for pairing with coffee or tea, and their delicate crumb makes them melt in your mouth.
Best of all, they’re quick and easy to make. With no chilling required, you can go from mixing to baking in under 30 minutes. They also store beautifully, making them an ideal choice for holiday gift boxes or cookie swaps. Once you try them, you’ll see why they’ve stood the test of time as a classic cookie.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for best flavor)
- Optional: extra powdered sugar for dusting
Pro Tips
- Toast the pecans before chopping to bring out their natural flavor.
- Don’t overmix the dough—stop as soon as ingredients come together.
- Shape evenly for consistent baking and a professional look.
- Cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar so it sticks lightly.
- Double the batch if gifting or sharing—they disappear fast.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cooling rack
Substitutions and Variations
- Nut options: Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts.
- Flavor boost: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract for a nutty twist.
- Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Holiday touch: Roll cookies in cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar.
- Mini version: Make smaller cookies for bite-sized sandies.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Dough can be prepared 2 days ahead and kept in the fridge.
- Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months—bake straight from frozen with 1–2 extra minutes.
- Baked cookies keep well at room temperature for a week, making them perfect for early holiday prep.
How to Make Pecan Sandies
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a bowl, beat softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in flour and salt until just combined. Stir in chopped pecans.
Step 4: Shape Cookies
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with your palm.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are golden.
Step 6: Cool and Dust
Cool cookies on a wire rack. Dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with coffee, hot cocoa, or tea for a cozy treat.
- Add to holiday cookie trays alongside gingerbread and sugar cookies.
- Package in festive tins or jars for thoughtful homemade gifts.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for a simple but elegant dessert.
Leftovers & Storage
Store pecan sandies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Benefits
While indulgent, pecan sandies offer a few hidden perks—pecans provide heart-healthy fats, fiber, and protein, while the simple ingredient list avoids artificial additives. Their moderate sweetness makes them a more balanced choice compared to frosted or filled cookies.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce added salt to ¼ teaspoon.
2. Do I need to chill the dough?
No, the dough holds shape without chilling, but you can chill for 30 minutes if your kitchen is warm.
3. Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
4. How do I get perfectly round cookies?
Roll the dough evenly and gently press before baking.
5. Can I freeze baked cookies?
Yes, up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp before serving.
6. Can I make them less sweet?
Yes, reduce powdered sugar to ½ cup.
7. What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
Blend granulated sugar in a blender until fine and powdery.
A Classic Cookie That Never Goes Out of Style
These Pecan Sandies are buttery, nutty, and timeless. Whether you make them for the holidays, a special gathering, or simply to enjoy with your morning coffee, they bring a touch of nostalgia and comfort to every bite. Easy, elegant, and endlessly shareable, they’re a cookie jar staple you’ll return to again and again.
