Sands
Delicious melt-in-your-mouth pecan cookies with a buttery, sweet flavor, perfect for holidays or casual gatherings, appealing to those who love rich, nutty treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add milk, self-rising flour, and chopped pecans; mix until combined.
- Roll small amounts of dough into finger-shaped pieces.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 30 minutes or until light brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool on wax paper or a cooling rack.
- Roll cooled cookies in confectioners' sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the dough. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour and add 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt per cup of flour. Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds for a unique twist. Make sure to cream the butter well for a lighter texture.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies make a delightful addition to any dessert platter and pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can serve them alongside a fruit salad or alongside a rich dessert like Nan's Chocolate Pie for a festive touch. They're perfect for gatherings or as a sweet snack during the day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the rolled dough or the baked cookies. Just make sure to separate layers with wax paper to prevent sticking. Allow cookies to thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sands contains roughly 384 calories, with 5g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but keep in mind that it may alter the taste and texture slightly. Butter provides a richer flavor and a better crumb, while margarine might make the cookies a bit softer. If using margarine, choose a stick form for the best results.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are light brown on the edges and slightly soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary based on your oven and the size of your cookies.
Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor of the cookies. Mix in about a cup of chocolate chips along with the pecans for a delicious variation. Just be mindful of the sweetness since confectioners' sugar is used for rolling.
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).