Delicious Pecan Shortbread for Holiday Treats

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Pecan Shortbread has become my go-to treat, especially during the holiday season. These delightful sticks, often dipped in chocolate, are perfect for festive cookie tins. Their crumbly texture and nutty flavor make them a standout among various dessert options. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or gifting them to loved ones, this recipe is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Shortbread

This pecan shortbread is not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying. Here are a few reasons to love this recipe:

Rich buttery flavor that melts in your mouth.
Perfect balance of sweetness from the powdered sugar and honey.
Easy to customize with chocolate or spices.
Ideal for tea time or festive gatherings.
Can be made gluten-free with a simple swap.
Perfect for gifting during the holidays.

This classic recipe for pecan sandy cookies will leave your friends and family asking for more!

Ingredients for Pecan Shortbread

Gather these items:

8 tablespoons (1 stick/ 113 grams) butter
1/3 cup pecan halves (toasted in a dry skillet)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon salt

These ingredients come together to create an amazing shortbread with pecans that is sure to impress.

How to Make Pecan Shortbread Step-by-Step

Step 1: First, preheat the oven to 350, and line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet until very fragrant but not burnt. The edges should just start to darken. Move them to a clean bowl to cool because they will keep cooking in the pan.
Step 3: In the bowl of a food processor, combine the butter, cooled pecans, powdered sugar, honey, vanilla, flour, and salt.
Step 4: Pulse until a dough forms that sticks together into a ball (but don’t over-mix; turn off the machine right when a ball first starts to form, even if other dough isn’t sticking to it).
Step 5: Press the dough into the prepared baking pan, and bake for 24-26 minutes, until the edges are brown and the dough is lightly golden brown all over.
Step 6: Let cool in the pan, then remove using the parchment paper to lift out. Slice into sticks or small triangles with a sharp knife.

Now you know how to make pecan shortbread that will surely delight everyone!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pecan Shortbread

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Don’t over-process the dough to keep the texture crumbly.
Experiment with variations like adding chocolate or using different nuts.

These homemade pecan butter cookies are a delight when made with care.

Best Ways to Serve Pecan Shortbread

Serve these delightful pecan biscuits with:

A cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon.
As a sweet treat during holiday gatherings.
With a drizzle of chocolate for added indulgence.

They are perfect for pecan shortbread for tea time.

How to Store and Reheat Pecan Shortbread

Store your pecan shortbread in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week. If you want to prepare them in advance, you can freeze the dough before baking, or freeze the baked shortbread. Just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pecan Shortbread

What’s the secret to perfect Pecan Shortbread?

The secret lies in not over-mixing the dough, which keeps the texture light and crumbly. Using toasted pecans enhances the flavor, making these shortbread sticks irresistible.

Can I make Pecan Shortbread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it or freeze it for later use. Just slice and bake when you’re ready to enjoy.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pecan Shortbread?

Common mistakes include over-baking or over-mixing the dough. Follow the baking time closely and stop mixing as soon as the dough forms a ball.

Variations of Pecan Shortbread You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor.
Incorporate chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Try gluten-free flour to make gluten-free pecan shortbread.
Make a pecan shortbread crust recipe for pies or tarts.

With these variations, you can enjoy different flavors while keeping the essence of this classic recipe intact.

Delicious Pecan Shortbread for Holiday Treats - Pecan Shortbread - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs or Cannoli Cream Sandwich Cookies. You can also explore our Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe for a festive treat!

Delicious Pecan Shortbread for Holiday Treats - Pecan Shortbread - additional detail

For more information on the benefits of pecans, you can visit The Pecan Nut Producers Association.