Homemade Pecan Sandies

Who doesn’t love sinking their teeth into a perfectly buttery cookie? This homemade pecan sandies recipe brings the cozy taste of nostalgia right into your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing a batch with friends or indulging with a cup of coffee, these cookies are sure to win hearts. Let’s dive into making these delightful treats that are simply irresistible.

Pecan sandies are not just cookies; they represent comfort, warmth, and those cherished moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones. There’s something special about the crunch of pecans and the melt-in-your-mouth buttery texture that makes them perfect for any occasion. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it brings back memories of baking with family during the holidays. Plus, they’re a breeze to make.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter – softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup pecans – finely chopped (you can also substitute with walnuts)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar – for dusting

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, the smell of cookies baking will make you feel right at home.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This is where the magic begins.

Step 3:

Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s well-blended into the mixture. You’re going to love the aroma.

Step 4:

Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix until everything is just combined, don’t overdo it.

Step 5:

Fold in those finely chopped pecans. They add a wonderful crunch and flavor to your cookies.

Step 6:

Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.

Step 7:

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 to 18 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.

Step 8:

Allow the cookies to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy the heavenly taste.

Nutritional Information

These homemade pecan sandies are not only delicious but also relatively satisfying. Each cookie (assuming you make about 24) contains approximately:
– Calories: 120
– Total Fat: 8g
– Saturated Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Sugar: 3g
– Protein: 1g

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make this pecan sandies recipe a bit healthier, you can use coconut oil in place of butter, and swap out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. You’ll still get that lovely buttery flavor but with a nutritious twist.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own, but why not take it up a notch? Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a fruity compote. You could also pair them with a delightful beverage like a homemade chai latte or a rich hot cocoa.

Common Mistakes

One of the biggest mistakes in baking these pecan sandies is overmixing the dough. While it’s important to combine the ingredients, too much mixing can lead to tough cookies. Remember, gentle folds are key. Also, be careful not to skip the step of letting them cool, they’ll hold their shape better.

Chef’s Notes

• Feel free to customize these cookies by adding chocolate chips or dried fruits for a fun twist.
• If you’re short on time, you can make the dough ahead and freeze it. Just roll it into balls, wrap in plastic, and store in the freezer. You can bake them fresh when the cookie craving hits.
• For an extra flavor kick, lightly toast the pecans before chopping them for a deeper taste.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I use different nuts in this pecan sandies recipe?
  A1: Absolutely; Walnuts or even hazelnuts would be lovely substitutes.
• Q2: How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
  A2: Look for a light golden edge and a slightly soft center; they’ll firm up while cooling.
• Q3: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
  A3: Yes; Simply replace the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

You know, there’s something wonderfully satisfying about making these homemade pecan sandies. The texture, the crunch, the buttery goodness, they truly encapsulate sweet moments that we cherish. So, grab your apron, rally your loved ones, and let’s bake some memories together.

Now, if you’re looking for another cookie adventure, whip up a batch of my scrumptious peanut butter cookies recipe for a nutty flavor explosion. Happy baking!

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