Get ready to transform your kitchen into a heavenly bakery with these irresistible Cinnamon Pecan Shortbread Cookies that will make your taste buds dance with joy! Imagine biting into a buttery, crumbly cookie infused with warm cinnamon and crunchy pecans – a perfect treat that combines classic American baking with gourmet sophistication. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious novice, these cookies promise to elevate your dessert game and become an instant family favorite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer. Beat for approximately 3-4 minutes until the mixture is smooth and pale.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Fold in the chopped pecans, ground cinnamon, and salt using a rubber spatula, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together.
- Roll the dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness and use a cookie cutter or knife to cut into desired shapes.
- Carefully transfer the cut cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted – room temperature is key for the perfect texture.
- Don't overmix the dough, as this can make your cookies tough instead of delightfully tender.
- Use a sharp cookie cutter or knife for clean, uniform shapes.
- For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before chopping to enhance their nutty profile.
- Let cookies cool completely to achieve that signature crisp shortbread texture.
- If you want a more decorative touch, dust the cooled cookies with additional powdered sugar.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming stale.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 130kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
