Pecan Shortbread
Crunchy, buttery pecan shortbread with sweet vanilla flavor, perfect for sharing during holidays or as a delightful treat with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Pat the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Prick the top with a fork.
- Bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool and harden.
- Cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the butter before mixing it with the sugar. You can substitute the chopped pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, increase the sugar slightly. Make sure to mix the ingredients well to avoid a crumbly texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pecan shortbread is delightful on its own, but can also be served with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For added indulgence, try pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serving alongside a slice of Quick Peach Cobbler. Dust with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pecan shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the squares, separated by parchment paper, for up to three months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Shortbread contains roughly 175 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning. Using salted butter will also impart a different flavor profile, which may enhance the nuttiness of the pecans.
What can I do if my dough seems too crumbly?
If the dough appears too crumbly, try adding a teaspoon or two of cold water or milk to help bind the ingredients together. Mixing thoroughly should also help achieve a consistent texture that can be patted into the baking pan.
Can I add chocolate to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped dark or white chocolate can be folded into the dough for a delicious twist. Approximately 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chunks would complement the pecans well, adding an extra layer of flavor to the shortbread.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).