Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe
There is something comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies filled with buttery goodness and toasted pecans. A classic pecan sandies recipe captures that nostalgic flavor many families love. These delicate cookies are light, crisp, and slightly sweet, making them perfect for any occasion, from holidays to afternoon treats.
What Makes Homemade Pecan Sandies Special
Homemade pecan sandies stand out for their crumbly texture and rich, buttery taste. Each bite blends the mild sweetness of the dough with the toasted flavor of pecans. Unlike overly sweet desserts, these cookies balance flavor and texture beautifully, making them a timeless favorite for all ages.
The appeal of a homemade pecan sandies cookie lies in the quality of ingredients and the care in every batch. Fresh pecans give them a natural nuttiness, while the buttery dough melts in your mouth. Baking them at home also lets you control sweetness, creating cookies that are perfectly balanced and comforting.
The Ingredients
Quality ingredients bring out the best in these cookies. Each component works together to create that classic sandy texture and nutty flavor. Using fresh and high-quality pecans adds both aroma and crunch to the dough.
Butter: Softened butter adds rich flavor and helps the dough blend smoothly for a tender texture.
Light Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth, giving the cookies a subtle caramel tone.
Granulated Sugar: Balances flavor and adds crispness to the edges while baking.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the buttery base and complements the nuttiness of the pecans.
Kosher Salt: Brings balance by highlighting the natural sweetness of the dough.
All-Purpose Flour: Creates the structure for the cookies and supports their sandy texture.
Chopped Pecans: Folded into the dough to add crunch and flavor throughout.
Pecan Halves: Pressed on top before baking for a beautiful and rustic finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Create Homemade Pecan Sandies
Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, beat softened butter with both sugars until creamy and smooth. Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing until everything is fully combined. Gradually add the flour on low speed until the dough comes together evenly.
Fold the chopped pecans into the dough and mix gently. Roll small portions into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about two inches apart. Gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass to form a round cookie. Press a pecan half into the top for a classic look. Bake for about 18 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden. Allow them to rest for a few minutes on the tray before transferring to a cooling rack.
The result is a batch of golden, crisp cookies with a delicate crumb and buttery flavor. They store well in airtight containers and taste even better the next day as the flavors settle. Pair them with coffee or tea for a simple, satisfying treat.
Bring Southern Flavor to Your Kitchen
At Double Q Pecan Company, we take pride in growing and processing our own pecans right here in the USA. If this recipe has inspired you, shop our wide range of southern pecan products to experience authentic farm-to-fork quality. From baking to snacking, our pecans are perfect for every kitchen creation.
To learn more or place an order, contact us today and taste the freshness of true southern tradition.