Description
These classic Pecan Shortbread cookies offer a rich, buttery flavor and a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth crumb. Featuring toasted pecans and a hint of cinnamon, they are the perfect slice-and-bake treat for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon tea.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup (100g) light or dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (100g) finely chopped pecans
- Coarse sugar and extra chopped pecans for rolling
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the brown and granulated sugars on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the vanilla extract, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure even distribution.
- With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour, cinnamon, and salt, mixing until a thick dough forms.
- Fold in the finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Divide the dough in half and roll each portion into an 8-inch log (about 2.5 inches in diameter). Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap.
- Chill the logs in the refrigerator for at least 3 to 4 hours, or overnight, to firm the butter.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the chilled logs in a mixture of coarse sugar and extra pecans, then slice into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Place cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheets and bake for 12 to 14 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
To ensure the most uniform shape, rotate the dough logs every hour during the first few hours of chilling to prevent a flat side from forming. If the dough becomes too hard to slice after an overnight chill, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cutting with a sharp knife to avoid cracking the edges.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 14 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American