Browned Butter Pecan Sandies

Browned Butter Pecan Sandies are rich, nutty, and perfectly buttery shortbread cookies that melt in your mouth. The secret is browning the butter before mixing it with the dough, which brings out a deep, toasty flavor. Combined with crunchy pecans, these sandies are ideal for holiday baking, gifting, or afternoon tea. Simple to prepare and delightfully addictive, these cookies are a classic treat that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Brown the Butter:
   In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, swirling occasionally, until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Let cool slightly.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, combine browned butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix into the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
4. Add Pecans:
   Fold in chopped pecans evenly throughout the dough.
5. Form Cookies:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten slightly with a fork.
6. Bake:
   Bake 12–15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Cool on a wire rack.
7. Serve or Store:
   Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Tips for Perfect Browned Butter Pecan Sandies

• Browning Butter: Keep a close eye on the butter—it can go from browned to burnt quickly. Remove from heat once golden and fragrant.
• Texture Variation: For softer cookies, slightly underbake by 1–2 minutes.
• Nut Options: Substitute walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt semi-sweet chocolate and drizzle over cooled cookies.
• Spiced Sandies: Add 1/2 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, festive twist.
• Mini Sandies: Make smaller bite-sized cookies for parties or gifting.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

• Sandies are a traditional shortbread-style cookie, often served during the holidays.
• Browning butter caramelizes the milk solids, creating a deep, nutty flavor that elevates classic cookies.
• Pecans are native to North America and have long been used in desserts, adding crunch and a buttery taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
• Package in festive tins for gifting during the holidays.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Browned Butter Pecan Sandies

Rich and nutty shortbread cookies made with browned butter and chopped pecans, perfect for holidays or gifting.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Calories: 200

Ingredients

  

Browned Butter Pecan Sandies

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar packed
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Wire rack
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Method

 

1. Brown butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Let cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, combine browned butter, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix into butter mixture to form a soft dough.
4. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten slightly with a fork.
6. Bake 12–15 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on wire rack.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

Watch butter closely while browning. Can add chocolate drizzle or spices for variation.