Classic Buttery Pecan Shortbread Cookies: A Buttery, Crunchy Delight!
These Classic Buttery Pecan Shortbread Cookies are buttery, crunchy, and packed with toasted pecans—the perfect treat for any occasion! Made with simple ingredients, they have a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture and are easy to make. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, tea time, or just because, these cookies will always be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crisp & Buttery – Every bite is rich and flaky.
✔ Simple Ingredients – No eggs, no fuss, just classic flavors!
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – Dough can be frozen and baked fresh later.
✔ Perfect with Coffee or Tea – A light, sweet, and nutty treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Pecans (Optional but Recommended)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, stirring once.
- Remove from oven and let cool.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla extract and salt.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in toasted pecans until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Shape & Chill
- Roll the dough into a log (about 2 inches thick) and wrap in plastic wrap.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to 3 days).
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 4: Slice & Bake
- Slice dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Remove and let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
🌰 Optional: Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a light, sweet finish.
🍫 Love Chocolate? Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate!
☕ Pair with coffee, tea, or milk for the ultimate snack.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
❄ To Store: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
🔥 To Freeze Dough: Wrap dough logs tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
📦 To Freeze Baked Cookies: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
These Buttery Pecan Shortbread Cookies are simple, classic, and absolutely delicious. Their crispy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, combined with the rich flavor of toasted pecans, makes them a perfect treat for any time of year.
Try this recipe and let me know—do you prefer them plain or dipped in chocolate?
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Classic Buttery Pecan Shortbread Cookies
These Classic Buttery Pecan Shortbread Cookies are buttery, crunchy, and packed with toasted pecans—the perfect treat for any occasion! Made with simple ingredients, they have a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture and are easy to make. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, tea time, or just because, these cookies will always be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Pecans (Optional but Recommended)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, stirring once.
- Remove from oven and let cool.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla extract and salt.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in toasted pecans until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Shape & Chill
- Roll the dough into a log (about 2 inches thick) and wrap in plastic wrap.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to 3 days).
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 4: Slice & Bake
- Slice dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Remove and let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
🌰 Optional: Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a light, sweet finish.
🍫 Love Chocolate? Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate!
☕ Pair with coffee, tea, or milk for the ultimate snack.