Homemade Pecan Sandies Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate treat that captures both old-fashioned charm and a fresh-baked aroma, Homemade Pecan Sandies are your answer. These cookies are buttery, tender, and absolutely packed with toasty pecan flavor—every bite feels like a cozy hug from someone who knows you well. Whether you’ve loved pecan sandies since childhood or you’re brand new to this classic dessert, baking a batch at home is a game-changer. The combination of just a few pantry staples with rich pecans results in a seriously irresistible treat you’ll want to share (or keep all to yourself!).

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Homemade Pecan Sandies lies in how just a handful of everyday ingredients can transform into something so special. Each item brings its own magic—a hint of sweetness, a lovely buttery foundation, or crunch and toastiness from fresh pecans. Here’s what you’ll need, along with why each one matters:

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): This is the backbone of the cookie, providing richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and helps the cookies crisp up slightly around the edges.
• Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Gives a tender, delicate crumb with just a hint of extra sweetness.
• Large egg (1): Binds the dough and brings everything together for a satisfying bite.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Adds warm, aromatic notes that make the cookies extra inviting.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): The structure-building element that creates a sturdy but tender cookie.
• Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Lifts the dough for a subtle puff and soft center.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Finely chopped pecans (1 1/2 cups): A generous amount for that nutty crunch in every bite—try toasting them first for extra depth!

How to Make Homemade Pecan Sandies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper—this simple step ensures the cookies don’t stick and makes clean-up a breeze. You’ll thank yourself later!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for those melt-in-your-mouth Homemade Pecan Sandies and creates a delicate, tender texture.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Once your butter and sugars are creamy, add in the egg and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined, and enjoy the sweet, fragrant aroma wafting up—it’s already smelling amazing!

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution before they meet the wet mixture, which means you’ll avoid any random salty or powdery bites.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until a soft, cohesive dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; just blend until everything’s incorporated for the most delicate Homemade Pecan Sandies.

Step 6: Stir In the Pecans

Fold in the finely chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly spread throughout the dough. Those golden, nutty bits are what make these cookies truly shine.

Step 7: Portion and Shape

Scoop out tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll each one into a ball. Space them about 2 inches apart on your baking sheets, then gently flatten the tops—this helps create that classic sandies shape and texture.

Step 8: Bake and Cool

Slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The cookies are done when the edges look just golden. Let them cool on the pan for around 5 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. At this point, your kitchen will smell absolutely magical.

How to Serve Homemade Pecan Sandies

Garnishes

A homemade cookie as lovely as these deserves a little flourish! For a touch of elegance, dust the cooled Homemade Pecan Sandies with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or top each with a pecan half before baking. Both options add a beautiful finish and make your cookies truly stand out.

Side Dishes

Homemade Pecan Sandies are delightfully rich, making them perfect with a mug of hot coffee, spiced chai, or even an ice-cold glass of milk. For a fun twist, pair with fresh fruit or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream to create a classic dessert duo.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack sandies in a pretty tin lined with parchment as a heartfelt gift, or set them out on a rustic wooden board surrounded by other homemade cookies for a festive cookie platter. You can even build cookie sandwiches by filling two with a bit of dulce de leche or chocolate spread for an extra special treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stash any leftover Homemade Pecan Sandies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay perfectly fresh and delicious for up to a week, making them ideal for grab-and-go treats or sweet surprises in lunchboxes.

Freezing

These cookies are freezer friendly! Let the Homemade Pecan Sandies cool completely before placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. Layer with parchment if stacking. They’ll keep wonderfully for up to three months, ready to thaw and enjoy whenever a craving hits.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked magic, pop a cookie into a 300°F oven for 2 to 3 minutes, or microwave briefly until just warmed through. The aroma and texture will be as dreamy as batch day!

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Absolutely! If you use salted butter, just reduce the additional salt in the recipe by half to keep your Homemade Pecan Sandies perfectly balanced.

Why do my cookies turn out crumbly?

Crumbly sandies usually mean there wasn’t enough moisture in the dough. Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and that you’re measuring your flour with care.

Can I toast the pecans before adding?

Yes, and it’s highly recommended! Toasting brings out the rich, nutty notes in Homemade Pecan Sandies. Just spread the pecans on a baking sheet and bake for about 7 minutes at 350°F, then cool before chopping and adding to your dough.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store your cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread or a marshmallow to help retain moisture. Homemade Pecan Sandies will stay delightfully tender for days!

Can I make the dough ahead and bake later?

Definitely. You can chill the dough, well wrapped, in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. When ready to bake, let it rest at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes so it’s easier to scoop and shape.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about pulling a batch of Homemade Pecan Sandies from your oven—warm, nutty, and buttery, they’re a little slice of homemade happiness. Give them a try and see if they don’t become your own most-requested cookie. I can’t wait for you to share them with your loved ones and hear all about your cookie adventures!

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