Are you craving a taste of the South? These melt-in-your-mouth pecan sandies are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. Simple to make yet bursting with flavor, this recipe is a delightful addition to your homemade cooking repertoire, perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or simply a delicious pick-me-up. Get ready to experience the magic of these classic Southern cookies!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecan halves, roughly chopped
Instructions:
Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is best achieved using an electric mixer, but it can be done by hand if you're feeling ambitious!
Step 2: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is thoroughly incorporated.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 4: Stir in Pecans
Fold in the chopped pecans. Gently mix until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Form the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters (or a knife) to cut out desired shapes. Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each one.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the pecan sandies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, you can enjoy these delightful cookies!
Tips for the Best Pecan Sandies:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened; this will ensure a smooth and creamy dough.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing spreading and achieving the perfect texture.
- Watch Carefully While Baking: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies to prevent burning.
Variations:
- Chocolate Pecan Sandies: Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a decadent twist.
- Spiced Pecan Sandies: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Different Nuts: Substitute the pecans with walnuts, almonds, or a mix of your favorite nuts.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the size of the cookies.
These easy recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy quick dinner ideas or a simple yet delicious dessert. Homemade cooking has never been easier! These pecan sandies are a truly delightful treat, perfect for sharing (or not!). Enjoy the deliciousness and the satisfaction of creating something truly special.