🥮 Pecan Sandies – Buttery, Nutty, and Perfectly Crisp

Pecan Sandies are classic, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that combine buttery richness with toasted pecans and a delicate crumbly texture. These cookies are simple, elegant, and absolutely irresistible — perfect for tea time, the holidays, or anytime you crave an old-fashioned treat.

They have that signature “sandy” shortbread texture — crisp on the edges and tender in the center, with a toasty pecan flavor that shines through every bite.

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🌟 Why You’ll Love Them

✔️ Buttery and nutty — the perfect shortbread balance
✔️ Easy to make — no chilling, no rolling, no fuss
✔️ Great for gifting or holiday cookie trays
✔️ Delicious with coffee, tea, or milk
✔️ Stay fresh for days — even better after resting overnight

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🧈 Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (110g) finely chopped pecans, toasted
• (Optional: 2 tablespoons powdered sugar for dusting)

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🔪 Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 6–8 minutes, stirring halfway, until fragrant. Let them cool.

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Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar with a mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add vanilla extract and salt; mix until combined.
3. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
4. Stir in the toasted pecans until evenly distributed.

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Step 3: Shape the Cookies

• Roll dough into 1-inch balls or scoop with a small cookie scoop.
• Place on an ungreased or parchment-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
• Flatten slightly with your fingers or the bottom of a glass.

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Step 4: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 14–16 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Step 5: Optional Finish

Once cooled, dust lightly with powdered sugar for a classic bakery look.

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🍪 Tips for Perfect Pecan Sandies

💡 Use room temperature butter – ensures smooth creaming and even texture.
💡 Toast your pecans – enhances their nutty flavor and crunch.
💡 Don’t overbake – they should be lightly golden, not brown.
💡 Let them rest – the flavor deepens after a few hours or overnight.

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🧊 Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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🥰 Optional Variations

✨ Maple Pecan Sandies: Add 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup and reduce sugar slightly.
✨ Coconut Pecan Sandies: Stir in ¼ cup shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
✨ Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted dark or white chocolate.
✨ Spiced Sandies: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg for cozy warmth.

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🍽 Perfect Pairings

☕ A hot cup of coffee or cappuccino
🍵 Afternoon tea
🥛 Cold glass of milk
🍦 Crumbled over vanilla ice cream

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💛 Final Thoughts

Pecan Sandies are timeless — simple ingredients, classic flavor, and that perfect buttery crumble. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, gifting homemade cookies, or treating yourself to a sweet moment with coffee, these cookies deliver every time.

Crisp, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious — they’re a true cookie jar favorite. 🍪✨

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