Pecan Sandies
Crumbly, buttery, and loaded with toasted pecans, Pecan Sandies are a timeless cookie that delivers both flavor and texture in every bite. These shortbread-style cookies are perfect for holidays, tea time, or whenever you crave something not too sweet but deeply satisfying. With just a few pantry ingredients and no complicated steps, you can whip up a batch of these nutty delights in no time. They store well, ship beautifully, and pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or milk.

Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- Optional: extra granulated sugar for topping
Instructions
- reheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in egg and vanilla until combined.
- Stir in flour and salt, then fold in chopped pecans.
- Scoop dough into balls and place on lined baking sheet.
- Flatten slightly with fingers or bottom of glass.
- Sprinkle with extra sugar if desired.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Cool on pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
Tips
- Toast pecans beforehand for enhanced flavor.
- Use cold butter for a slightly firmer dough.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Chill dough before baking if cookies spread too much.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add cinnamon for a warm twist.
- Use brown sugar for deeper caramel notes.
- Dip half in chocolate for an elegant treat.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for holiday flavor.
- Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred.
FAQs – Pecan Sandies
Why are they called “Sandies”?
The name refers to their crumbly, sandy texture thanks to the high butter and flour ratio.
Q2: Can I make them without nuts?
Yes, they’ll still be buttery and delicious—just omit the pecans.
Q3: Should I chill the dough?
It’s optional but helps control spreading and improves texture.
Q4: Can I freeze the cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze baked cookies or unbaked dough for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Great with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream.
- Perfect addition to cookie tins and holiday platters.
- Enjoy as a simple after-dinner treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Buttery shortbread texture
- Easy, classic recipe
- Toasted nutty flavor
- Great for gifting or storing
- Kid- and crowd-approved
Pecan Sandies
24 cookies
servings10
minutes15
minutes130
kcalIngredients
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans
Optional: extra granulated sugar for topping
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream butter, sugars, then mix in egg and vanilla.
- Add flour, salt, and chopped pecans.
- Shape dough into balls and flatten slightly.
- Bake for 12–15 mins until golden on edges.
- Cool before serving or storing.
