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Creamy Pecan Shortbread Cookies Recipe

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3.9 from 28 reviews

Delightfully buttery and crumbly pecan shortbread cookies made with simple ingredients, bursting with the rich flavor of toasted pecans. These cookies are perfect for tea time or any occasion that calls for a classic, nutty treat.

Ingredients

Shortbread Dough

  • ¾ cup butter, softened
  • ⅔ cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure even, gentle baking that prevents the cookies from browning too quickly.
  2. Prepare dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour until the mixture forms a soft dough. Finally, fold in the chopped pecans evenly throughout the dough.
  3. Shape cookies: Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ½ inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or cut into rectangles or squares as desired. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each.
  4. Bake cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn light golden brown. This slow baking ensures a tender and crumbly texture.
  5. Cool cookies: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents breaking while the cookies are still soft.

Notes

  • Chopping the pecans to a medium size retains texture and flavor without overpowering the cookie.
  • Butter should be softened but not melted for proper creaminess in the dough.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • Optionally, toast pecans lightly in a dry skillet before adding for extra flavor.
  • For a festive touch, sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking.