Introduction
Classic Pecan Sandies are delightful, buttery cookies that are perfect for any occasion. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are made with a few simple ingredients, including pecans, butter, and flour. With their delicate texture and rich nutty flavor, Pecan Sandies are sure to become a favorite among cookie lovers.
Ingredients
To make Classic Pecan Sandies, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Steps
Follow these simple steps to make delicious Classic Pecan Sandies:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and salt to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour to the mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
5. Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Shape the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Use a fork to gently flatten each ball, creating a crisscross pattern on the top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
There are several ways to customize Classic Pecan Sandies to suit your taste:
– Substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
– Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm and spicy twist.
– Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra indulgent touch.
Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your Classic Pecan Sandies turn out perfectly:
– Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
– Use finely chopped pecans to ensure even distribution throughout the dough.
– Do not overmix the dough, as this can result in a tougher texture.
– Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
Conclusion
Classic Pecan Sandies are a timeless treat that deserve a place in every cookie jar. With their buttery flavor and delicate texture, they are sure to please both young and old alike. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or shared with loved ones, these cookies are bound to become a family favorite. So why not bake a batch today and savor the deliciousness of Classic Pecan Sandies?
FAQs
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
A: It is recommended to use unsalted butter to have better control over the salt content in the cookies. However, if you only have salted butter on hand, you can reduce the amount of salt added to the dough.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the dough for later use. Shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: How long do these cookies stay fresh?
A: When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Classic Pecan Sandies can stay fresh for up to 1 week. However, they are best enjoyed within the first few days of baking when they are at their crispiest.
