Butter Pecan Shortbread Cookies

Delicate, buttery, and full of nutty flavor, these Butter Pecan Shortbread Cookies are a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with toasted pecans and rich butter, these cookies have a tender crumb and just the right touch of sweetness. They’re simple to make and even easier to love—a timeless cookie that never goes out of style.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture – Buttery and delicate with every bite.
Nutty & Toasted – Pecans add warmth and depth of flavor.
Simple Ingredients – Pantry staples make these cookies shine.
Elegant & Versatile – Great for holidays, gifts, or teatime treats.
Freezer-Friendly – Make the dough ahead and bake when ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ⅔ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans, toasted

Optional Toppings:

• Extra powdered sugar for dusting
• Drizzle of melted chocolate or white chocolate

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife or cookie cutter
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 6–8 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant.
Cool completely and chop finely.

Step 2: Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add vanilla extract and salt; mix to combine.
Gradually add flour, mixing just until combined.
Fold in the chopped, toasted pecans.

Step 3: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough in half and shape into logs or flatten into discs.
Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).

Step 4: Slice & Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice chilled dough into ¼-inch thick rounds or roll and cut with cookie cutters.
Place on prepared baking sheet, spacing 1 inch apart.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 5: Cool & Finish
Let cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate once cooled.
Store in an airtight container.

Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Shortbread Cookies
Use Good Butter – Flavor shines in a shortbread, so go with quality.
Toast the Pecans – This step deepens the flavor and prevents sogginess.
Chill the Dough – Helps keep the cookies from spreading too much.
Slice Evenly – For even baking and uniform cookies.
Don’t Overbake – Look for lightly golden edges; shortbread should be pale and tender.

Serving Suggestions
With Tea or Coffee – The perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
Holiday Cookie Tray – A classic cookie everyone will recognize and love.
Gift Giving – Stack and wrap in cellophane with a ribbon.
Dessert Boards – Pair with truffles, chocolate-dipped fruit, and caramels.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Refrigerator: Keeps longer, up to 10 days in a sealed container.

Freezing:

• Dough: Freeze logs or discs wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Slice and bake from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to bake time.
• Baked Cookies: Freeze in layers separated by parchment for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• No reheating needed—best served at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use salted butter?
Yes—just reduce or omit the added salt in the dough.

2. Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure the other ingredients are certified GF.

3. What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
You can pulse granulated sugar in a blender to make a substitute.

4. Can I make these into thumbprint cookies?
Absolutely! Press a small well in the center and fill with jam before baking.

5. How do I keep them from spreading?
Be sure to chill the dough thoroughly and bake on a cool sheet.

Final Thoughts
Butter Pecan Shortbread Cookies are a beautiful combination of rich buttery goodness and nutty warmth. With their delicate crumb and simple elegance, they’re perfect for any season and every reason. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just indulging in a sweet moment, these cookies always hit the spot.

Bake a batch and share them with someone you love—or keep them all for yourself. Either way, they won’t last long!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 60 minutes
Baking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):
Calories: 140 | Protein: 2g | Carbohydrates: 11g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Sodium: 45mg

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