Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe

There’s simply nothing like biting into a crisp, buttery Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe fresh from your own oven—the delicate crumb, the toasty pecans, that irresistible aroma filling the kitchen! This old-fashioned favorite is pure comfort and nostalgia, and if you’ve never experienced the addictive combination of rich vanilla cookie and golden pecans, you’re in for a seriously delightful treat. Whether you’re making these for a family gathering, a cozy afternoon treat, or a holiday cookie platter, this recipe is about to become your go-to for something special yet wonderfully simple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of kitchen staples and a generous helping of fresh pecans, you can bring together a recipe that tastes far more ambitious than the ingredient list might suggest. Every single item in the Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe works hard to achieve that flawless sandy texture and signature nutty flavor—no fancy add-ins required!

• Unsalted butter, softened: The foundation for richness and tender crumb—let it come fully to room temperature for best results.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweet structure and helps create that classic cookie snap.
• Packed light brown sugar: Infuses the cookies with deep caramel-y notes that play beautifully with pecans.
• All-purpose flour: Provides body and that signature sandy texture.
• Salt: Just enough to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
• Vanilla extract: Gives the cookies warm, inviting undertones.
• Pecans, coarsely chopped: The true stars of the show! Reserve a bit for rolling to add extra crunch to the edges.

How to Make Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Get Ready to Bake

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper—this step ensures the cookies won’t stick and helps with an even bake. Make sure your butter is fully softened; this makes the mixing process a total breeze.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle, or with a handheld electric mixer, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium speed. Keep it going for 2 to 5 minutes, until the mixture looks pale and fluffy. This creaming process is key to light, airy cookies, so don’t rush through it!

Step 3: Add Flour and Flavors

Turn the mixer down to low. Add the flour, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until you no longer see streaks of flour—stop and scrape down the bowl if needed. The dough will be on the crumbly side, but it should come together easily when pressed.

Step 4: Stir in the Pecans

Switch to the stir setting or lowest mixer speed, and toss in your coarsely chopped pecans—but save about ½ cup for rolling. Mix until the pecans are just distributed. These toasty bites make every mouthful deliciously crunchy and nutty.

Step 5: Shape and Coat the Cookies

Using a 1 ½ tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out each ball of dough. Roll each portion between your palms to make a smooth ball, then roll it in the reserved chopped pecans to create that classic textured coating. This extra step is what gives the Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe its beautiful look and satisfying nutty bite along the edges.

Step 6: Flatten and Arrange

Place the pecan-covered dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space around each for spreading. Using the flat bottom of a glass or sturdy measuring cup, gently press each dough ball flat—this helps create those signature sandy rounds with pecan-laced edges.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden at the edges but not deeply browned. The aroma of toasted butter and vanilla will tell you you’re almost done!

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This last bit of patience ensures your Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe is as crisp and delightful as it should be.

How to Serve Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For a pretty presentation, dust your cooled cookies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or add a drizzle of melted chocolate. A little extra chopped pecan on top before baking is always a hit for visuals and crunch.

Side Dishes

The subtle sweetness and buttery richness of these cookies pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, hot tea, or even a tall glass of milk. They also love being part of a festive cookie platter alongside lemon squares, brownies, and other classic cookies.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re in a gifting mood, the Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe makes a delightful treat packaged in a glass jar or on a rustic wooden tray with ribbon. Tuck in a printed recipe card for the ultimate personal touch, or add to dessert buffets for parties with a cute name tag.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They stay crisp and delicious for days, making them perfect for prepping ahead or packing in lunchboxes.

Freezing

The Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe is extremely freezer-friendly! Freeze baked cookies in a single layer for about an hour, then move to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months—just thaw at room temperature when cravings hit.

Reheating

Want to bring back that freshly-baked magic? Warm your cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3 to 5 minutes. They’ll crisp up beautifully, and your kitchen will smell fantastic all over again.

FAQs

Can I toast the pecans before adding them?

Absolutely! Toasting the pecans in a dry skillet or oven for a few minutes brings out even more depth and nuttiness, making this Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe extra special.

Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute a good-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure the mix contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for best results.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

You can use salted butter if that’s what you have. Simply reduce the added salt in the recipe by half so your cookies don’t turn out too salty.

What’s the secret to that perfect sandy texture?

Creaming the butter and sugars until very fluffy, plus using plenty of chopped pecans, gives the cookie its trademark crumbly yet melt-in-your-mouth bite in this Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe.

Do these cookies spread much while baking?

They don’t spread a lot, thanks to the dense dough and lack of leavening, which helps hold their signature rounded shape with a flat top—just make sure to flatten them a bit before baking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to share a meaningful homemade treat or indulge in a quiet moment with the perfect cookie, you can’t go wrong with this Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe. Every batch brings cozy bakery vibes right to your kitchen. Give it a try—you just might find yourself baking a second batch before you know it!

Print