Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe

If you are searching for a buttery, nutty, and utterly irresistible treat, this Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These classic cookies are perfectly crumbly with a tender bite, saturated with the rich flavor of toasted pecans and just the right amount of sweetness. With a recipe that yields around 60 cookies, it’s perfect for sharing with family, gifting during holidays, or simply stocking your cookie jar with a homemade delight that everyone will rave about. Every crumb carries a nostalgic warmth that makes Homemade Pecan Sandies a timeless favorite you’ll want to bake time and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple pantry staples that come together to create that perfect blend of texture and flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the rich butter and smooth oils that lend softness to the dough, to the pecans which add that signature crunch. The combination of granulated and confectioner’s sugar brings the ideal sweetness and delicate finish.

• Unsalted butter (1/2 lb, softened): Provides richness and helps create that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Vegetable oil (1 cup): Keeps the sandies soft and moist, balancing the butter perfectly.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and aids in browning for a subtle caramelized flavor.
• Confectioner’s sugar, sifted (1 cup): Contributes to a delicate crumb and gentle sweetness on the surface.
• Eggs (2 large): Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Infuses warmth and depth of flavor that makes the cookies irresistible.
• All-purpose flour (4 cups / 500g): The foundation of the dough, giving it body and structure.
• Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps cookies rise slightly and achieve a tender crumb.
• Cream of tartar (1 tsp): Gives a subtle tang and contributes to the sandy texture.
• Salt (1 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the pecans.
• Chopped pecans (2 cups): The star ingredient, adding crunch and that classic pecan nuttiness.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup for rolling): Creates a sweet, slightly crunchy coating on the outside of the cookies.

How to Make Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163 degrees Celsius). This temperature ensures your cookies bake evenly, allowing the edges to turn a soft golden brown while keeping the inside crumbly and tender. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup. A little prep goes a long way toward perfect cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and sifted confectioner’s sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because properly creamed fats and sugar create the silky base for your dough, giving the sandies their characteristic soft texture.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This gradual blending ensures an even, stable dough. Stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, inviting flavor that complements the nuttiness of the pecans.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. This not only distributes the leavening agents evenly but also prepares the dry mix for a gentle incorporation to prevent overmixing.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Overmixing here can lead to tough cookies, so it’s best to stop when you see no more streaks of flour.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold the chopped pecans into the dough. These nuts give the sandies their signature crunch and rich flavor. Be sure they are evenly distributed for delightful bites in every cookie.

Step 7: Shape and Coat the Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and coat each ball with the granulated sugar set aside for rolling. This sugar coating adds a beautiful sparkle and sweet outer layer that balances the soft interior. Place the balls about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets, allowing room for gentle spreading during baking.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the sandies for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges begin to turn a light golden color. Their centers will still look soft but will firm up as they cool. It’s important to watch closely so they don’t overbake and lose their tender crumb.

Step 9: Cool and Transfer

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before moving them to wire racks. This brief rest prevents breaking and helps them set perfectly without becoming hard.

How to Serve Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar on top for an elegant snowy effect, or drizzle with melted chocolate for a decadent twist. A few chopped pecans on each cookie right after baking also add a charming touch and amplify the nutty goodness.

Side Dishes

These cookies are fabulous served alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For a festive gathering, pair them with a creamy hot chocolate or a glass of cold milk to complement their buttery texture and nutty flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe cookies tied with a rustic ribbon as charming edible gifts. Or serve them in decorative tins lined with parchment paper during the holidays. For a party, arrange them on a tiered serving tray mixed with fruits and chocolates for a lovely dessert display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Homemade Pecan Sandies in an airtight container at room temperature. They keep their wonderful texture and flavor for up to one week, making them perfect for planning ahead or enjoying throughout the week.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to three months and thawed at room temperature when you’re ready for a sweet treat.

Reheating

If you like your sandies with a slightly warm, freshly baked feel, gently reheat them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent them from becoming overly soft or greasy.

FAQs

Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts can be great alternatives. They each bring their own unique flavor and texture, but pecans are the classic choice that gives sandies their traditional taste.

Why do the cookies have a sandy texture?

The sandy texture comes from the combination of confectioner’s sugar, cream of tartar, and the way the dough is mixed gently. These elements together create a tender crumb that literally melts in your mouth, mimicking the texture similar to shortbread cookies.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, you can enjoy gluten-free pecan sandies. Just be mindful that texture may vary slightly depending on the blend you use.

Do I need to toast the pecans beforehand?

While not required, lightly toasting pecans before chopping enhances their flavor and adds a lovely depth of nuttiness to your cookies. Simply toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant.

How long will these cookies stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, Homemade Pecan Sandies stay fresh and delicious for up to a week. For longer storage, freezing is your friend.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe is a true treasure for anyone who loves classic, nostalgic sweets with a nutty twist. Baking these cookies fills your home with an irresistible aroma and gifting them brings smiles all around. Once you try this recipe, they’re sure to become a beloved staple in your collection. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy one of the best homemade treats you can bake!

Print