If you’re looking for a cookie that’s rich, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, look no further than Browned Butter Pecan Sandies. These buttery shortbread cookies feature the deep, nutty flavor of browned butter combined with crunchy toasted pecans—making them a festive treat for holidays, gift-giving, or any special occasion.

The magic of browned butter adds a caramel-like depth that transforms ordinary shortbread into a sophisticated dessert. Lightly dusted with powdered sugar, these cookies are as beautiful as they are flavorful.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), browned
½ cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped

Instructions

Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine browned butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually mix into the butter mixture until dough forms.
Add Pecans: Fold in toasted, chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
Shape Cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten slightly with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 12–15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, dust cookies with additional powdered sugar before serving.

Tips for Perfect Browned Butter Pecan Sandies

Watch the butter carefully: Browned butter can go from golden to burnt quickly; remove from heat once it smells nutty.
Toast the pecans: Lightly toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds crunch.
Uniform cookies: Use a cookie scoop to ensure even sizing.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Variations

Chocolate Twist: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the dough.
Maple Pecan: Replace vanilla with 1 tsp pure maple extract for a warm flavor.
Spiced Version: Add ½ tsp cinnamon or pumpkin spice for seasonal flair.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with hot cocoa, coffee, or tea for a cozy holiday treat.
Include in a holiday cookie platter or gift box for friends and family.
Pair with fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for an elegant dessert.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Browned butter, or “beurre noisette” in French, is a classic technique that adds a nutty, caramel flavor to baked goods.
Sandies are traditional shortbread cookies often made with nuts and powdered sugar, commonly served during the holiday season.
Combining pecans and browned butter elevates the classic sandie into a rich, gourmet treat perfect for gifting or entertaining.

Browned Butter Pecan Sandies are simple, festive, and irresistibly buttery, making them a holiday cookie everyone will love.