Pecan Shortbread Cookies: Buttery Perfection in Every Bite

There’s something magical about the aroma of Pecan Shortbread Cookies baking in the oven on a cozy afternoon. Whether you’re preparing for an impromptu gathering with friends or simply craving a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea, these cookies deliver a perfect balance of buttery richness and nutty flavor. The delicate crumb that melts in your mouth, combined with the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans, makes these Pecan Shortbread Cookies an irresistible classic that never goes out of style.

What sets this Pecan Shortbread Cookies recipe apart is not just its incredible taste, but also how surprisingly simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of quality ingredients and some basic techniques, you’ll create bakery-worthy cookies that will have everyone asking for your secret. The hint of orange zest adds a subtle brightness that elevates these cookies from good to extraordinary. Let’s dive into making the best homemade Pecan Shortbread Cookies you’ve ever tasted!

Why You’ll Love These Pecan Shortbread Cookies

• ✅ These buttery Pecan Shortbread Cookies with maple syrup offer a rich, caramelized flavor that’s impossible to resist
• ✅ Perfect for beginners – this easy Pecan Shortbread Cookies recipe requires no special equipment or techniques
• ✅ Versatile base for creating the best Pecan Shortbread Cookies for holiday baking with various flavor additions
• ✅ Make-ahead friendly – the dough for these Pecan Shortbread Cookies can be refrigerated for up to 3 days
• ✅ Traditional Pecan Shortbread Cookies for tea time that pair perfectly with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk
• ✅ These Pecan Shortbread Cookies for gift giving package beautifully and stay fresh for days

Ingredients for Pecan Shortbread Cookies

To make these delectable Pecan Shortbread Cookies from scratch, you’ll need:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened at room temperature
• ½ cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 teaspoon water
• ½ teaspoon freshly grated orange zest (Optional, but highly recommended)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup very finely chopped pecans
• ½ cup confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:

• For gluten-free Pecan Shortbread Cookies variations, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend
• To make vegan Pecan Shortbread Cookies using almond flour, replace the butter with plant-based butter and use 1½ cups almond flour plus ½ cup regular flour
• For chewy Pecan Shortbread Cookies with caramel, add ¼ cup of caramel bits to the dough
• Want Pecan Shortbread Cookies with chocolate drizzle? Have 4 ounces of dark or white chocolate ready for finishing touches

How to Make Pecan Shortbread Cookies – Step by Step

Preparing the Dough

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This creates the perfect foundation for your Pecan Shortbread Cookies.

Step 2: Add the vanilla extract, orange juice, water, and orange zest (if using). Beat until well combined and the mixture looks smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Gradually add the flour, about ½ cup at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Overmixing at this stage can make your Pecan Shortbread Cookies tough rather than tender.

Step 4: Fold in the finely chopped pecans using a spatula or wooden spoon until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Shaping and Baking

Step 5: Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 1½ inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper.

Step 6: Refrigerate the dough logs for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This crucial chilling step helps your Pecan Shortbread Cookies hold their shape while baking.

Step 7: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 8: Unwrap the chilled dough and cut into ¼-inch thick slices. Place the cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 9: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are just barely beginning to turn golden. The Pecan Shortbread Cookies will still be soft when you remove them from the oven.

Step 10: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11: Once cooled, dust the Pecan Shortbread Cookies with confectioners’ sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Pecan Shortbread Cookies

• Temperature matters: The secret to the best Pecan Shortbread Cookies is starting with properly softened butter—not melted, not cold, but just soft enough to leave an indent when pressed.
• Toast the pecans: For maximum flavor in your Pecan Shortbread Cookies, toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes before adding them to the dough.
• Slice with care: If the dough crumbles when slicing, let it warm up for about 5 minutes at room temperature. A sharp, thin knife works best for clean cuts.
• Customize your cookies: Create variations like chocolate-dipped Pecan Shortbread Cookies by melting 4 ounces of good quality chocolate and dipping half of each cooled cookie before setting on parchment paper.
• Freezer-friendly dough: You can freeze the wrapped dough logs for up to 3 months, making it easy to bake fresh Pecan Shortbread Cookies whenever the craving strikes.

Best Ways to Serve Pecan Shortbread Cookies

The traditional way to enjoy Pecan Shortbread Cookies is with a cup of hot tea or coffee, allowing the buttery cookie to melt slightly with each sip. However, there are many delightful ways to serve these versatile treats:

• Create a sophisticated dessert by sandwiching a small scoop of vanilla ice cream between two Pecan Shortbread Cookies
• Pair with fresh berries and whipped cream for an elegant after-dinner treat
• Serve alongside a cheese board at your next gathering—the nutty Pecan Shortbread Cookies complement aged cheeses beautifully
• Package in decorative tins or boxes for homemade gifts—these Pecan Shortbread Cookies for gift giving will delight anyone lucky enough to receive them

Nutritional Information for Pecan Shortbread Cookies

Per cookie (based on 24 servings):

• Calories: 165 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 11g (Saturated Fat: 5g)
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 56mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 6g

These nutritional values may vary slightly depending on specific brands used and any substitutions made in your Pecan Shortbread Cookies recipe.

Storage & Leftovers

Your Pecan Shortbread Cookies will stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, follow these guidelines:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezer: Fully baked Pecan Shortbread Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
• Cookie dough: The prepared dough for Pecan Shortbread Cookies can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making it perfect for advance preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pecan Shortbread Cookies

How do you make Pecan Shortbread Cookies that don’t spread too much?

The key to preventing spreading is properly chilling the dough. After shaping your Pecan Shortbread Cookies dough into logs, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and your oven is properly preheated to the correct temperature.

Can you freeze Pecan Shortbread Cookies?

Absolutely! You can freeze both the baked Pecan Shortbread Cookies and the unbaked dough. For baked cookies, place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers and freeze for up to 3 months. For unbaked dough, wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

What variations can be made to Pecan Shortbread Cookies?

The possibilities are endless! Try these popular variations:

• Pecan Shortbread Cookies with chocolate drizzle
• Chewy Pecan Shortbread Cookies with caramel pieces
• Spiced Pecan Shortbread Cookies with cinnamon and nutmeg
• Vegan Pecan Shortbread Cookies using almond flour and plant-based butter
• Gluten-free Pecan Shortbread Cookies variations using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend

How do I know when my Pecan Shortbread Cookies are done baking?

Pecan Shortbread Cookies are done when the edges are just barely beginning to turn golden, while the centers still look slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake, which can make them dry and crumbly. The perfect Pecan Shortbread Cookies should have a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make the perfect Pecan Shortbread Cookies from scratch, it’s time to get baking! These buttery, nutty delights are versatile enough for any occasion—from casual afternoon tea to elegant holiday gifts. The combination of rich butter, toasty pecans, and that hint of orange creates a cookie that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations like Pecan Shortbread Cookies with chocolate drizzle or the best Pecan Shortbread Cookies for holiday baking, you’re sure to create something delicious. The beauty of these cookies lies in their simplicity and the quality of ingredients used.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy Pecan Shortbread Cookies? Do you prefer them plain, dipped in chocolate, or with a special twist of your own? Share your experiences and variations in the comments below!

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