Pecan Sandies are a classic cookie that has been a favorite for generations. Known for their rich, buttery flavor and delightful crunch, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a cozy afternoon treat, or simply a sweet snack to enjoy with your coffee. The combination of finely chopped pecans and a melt-in-your-mouth texture makes Pecan Sandies a must-have recipe in any baker’s repertoire. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create the most delicious Pecan Sandies, ensuring they turn out perfectly every time.
Ingredients for Irresistibly Crunchy Pecan Sandies
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans
- Optional: additional powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make Irresistibly Crunchy Pecan Sandies
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This lower temperature allows the cookies to bake slowly, ensuring they develop a deep, buttery flavor without browning too quickly.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture.
3. Add the Extracts:
Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. These extracts enhance the flavor of the cookies, adding a subtle, fragrant sweetness.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, beating on low speed until just combined. The dough will be thick and slightly crumbly.
5. Incorporate the Pecans:
Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans using a spatula or wooden spoon. The pecans should be evenly distributed throughout the dough, giving each cookie a delightful crunch.
6. Shape the Cookies:
Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball between your palms. Place the dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass to form a disc shape.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as Pecan Sandies are meant to be pale and tender.
8. Cool and Dust (Optional):
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust the tops with additional powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
About the Main Ingredients
Butter:
The foundation of any great cookie, butter adds richness and a tender crumb to Pecan Sandies. The key is to use unsalted butter, which allows you to control the salt content in the recipe, and to ensure it is softened before creaming to create a smooth, cohesive dough.
Pecans:
Pecans are the star of this cookie, providing a distinctive nutty flavor and crunchy texture. When chopping the pecans, aim for a fine, even consistency to ensure they are well-distributed throughout the dough. Fresh, high-quality pecans will elevate the flavor of your Sandies, making them truly irresistible.
Vanilla and Almond Extracts:
These extracts work together to enhance the flavor profile of the cookies. Vanilla extract adds a classic sweetness, while almond extract introduces a subtle, aromatic note that pairs beautifully with the pecans. Using both extracts creates a well-rounded, flavorful cookie.
Powdered Sugar:
In addition to granulated sugar, powdered sugar is used in the dough to achieve a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The fine texture of powdered sugar helps to absorb moisture from the butter, contributing to the delicate crumb of the finished cookies.
Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful Pecan Sandies. Their perfect blend of buttery richness and nutty crunch makes them an unforgettable treat!
