Sandies
Delightfully buttery and nutty, Sandies are a classic cookie that melt in your mouth. With the crunch of pecans and a dusting of powdered sugar, these treats are perfect for gatherings or as a sweet snack. Their simple, comforting flavors appeal to cookie lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat butter for 30 seconds; add granulated sugar and beat until fluffy.
- Add vanilla and 2 teaspoons of water, beat well.
- Stir in flour and pecans.
- Shape into 1-inch balls or 1 1/2 x 1/2-inch fingers.
- Place on ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake in 325° oven for 20 minutes.
- Cool completely.
- Gently shake a few cookies at a time in a bag with powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider toasting the pecans before incorporating them into the dough. If you don't have pecans on hand, walnuts or almonds can be substituted. To enhance the sweetness, add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Make sure to chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping for a firmer texture. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside your favorite coffee. Browse more American recipes for additional inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
These Sandies are delicious on their own but can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie trays. For a refreshing contrast, serve with fresh fruit or a light fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Sandies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their delightful texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sandies contains roughly 145 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 11g fat.
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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts based on your preference. Each nut will lend a slightly different flavor and texture to the cookies, making it a versatile recipe.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the butter and make it much easier to shape into balls or fingers. You can also dust your hands with flour to help with shaping.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Sandies, swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. The cookies should still turn out delicious and crumbly, just like the traditional version.
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).