Description
Classic Pecan Sandies are buttery, tender cookies filled with finely chopped pecans and topped with a whole pecan half. These slightly sweet, nutty cookies are perfect for any occasion and easy to make with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 2 sticks butter, softened (1 cup)
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pecan halves, finely chopped
For Topping
- 24 pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350° F (175° C) to prepare for baking the cookies.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a stand-up mixer bowl, beat the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 3 minutes or until the mixture is light and fluffy. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Add Flavor and Salt: Add the vanilla extract and kosher salt to the butter mixture, then beat well until fully combined, enhancing the cookie’s flavor.
- Incorporate Flour and Pecans: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture and mix on low speed just until a dough forms. Fold in the finely chopped pecans on low speed until evenly distributed through the dough.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on two parchment-lined baking sheets. Flatten each ball to 1/2-inch thickness by pressing gently with the bottom of a glass.
- Add Pecan Halves: Press one whole pecan half into the center top of each cookie for decoration and extra crunch.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 18 minutes or until the edges start to turn a light golden brown, indicating they are done.
- Cool: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for 3 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
- Press the pecan halves gently to avoid breaking them and to keep the cookie shape intact.
- Storing cookies in an airtight container will keep them fresh for up to one week.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Pecan Sandies, pecan cookies, buttery cookies, Christmas cookies, nutty cookies, classic cookie recipe
