Best Pecan Sandies Recipe

These melt-in-your-mouth pecan sandies are a holiday MUST-BAKE! This generous recipe ensures there are plenty to share (or hoard…we won't judge!). Buttery, nutty, and perfectly sweet, these cookies disappear fast. The secret? Ample butter for that ultimate richness and delicate crumb. Get ready for rave reviews!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 152.8 kcal
Protein 3g
Rating 4.5 (29 Reviews)
Best Pecan Sandies

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Best Pecan Sandies

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • White Sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • Powdered sugar, for rolling

How to Make Best Pecan Sandies

  1. Cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of water.
  3. Gradually stir in 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 cup chopped pecans until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Cover the dough tightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  5. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. Roll dough into walnut-sized balls or crescents.
  7. Place cookies 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
  9. Let cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Roll warm cookies in powdered sugar. For extra sweetness, roll them a second time!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

2 g

Sugar

16g

Fat

25g

Carbs

4g