Pecan Shorts
Delicious pecan shortbread cookies with a buttery, nutty flavor, coated in powdered sugar. Perfect for holiday treats or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and water.
- Add flour and chopped pecans. Chill for 2 hours or overnight.
- Roll out the dough into rectangular pieces in your hands.
- Bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
- Cool slightly and shake in powdered sugar while still warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, make sure the butter is softened but not melted when creaming it with powdered sugar. If you're out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. Chill the dough thoroughly to ensure a firmer texture, making it easier to handle when shaping. If pressed for time, skip extended chilling but expect a slightly different texture. For a variation, add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
Serving Suggestions
These Pecan Shorts are delightful on their own or served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them at a brunch with dishes like Pineapple Brunch Casserole or as part of a dessert spread including Mile High Lemon Pie. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit for a balanced snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pecan Shorts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their texture, avoid refrigeration. If you prefer them warm, reheat in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness without making them too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Shorts contains roughly 912 calories, with 6g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (13% 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 freeze Pecan Shorts?
Yes, Pecan Shorts freeze well! After baking and cooling, store them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, or reheat in the oven for a few minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Ensure that you chill the dough adequately, as this will help firm it up. Remember, a bit of stickiness is normal due to the butter content, so be cautious not to add too much flour.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Pecan Shorts, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. Keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them in the oven for perfect results.
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).