Sand Tarts - Pecan Sandies

6 servings Prep: 20 m Cook: 35 m Total: 55 m Beginner
5.0/5 (3)
Sand Tarts - Pecan Sandies
This cookie was served annually at my Alma Mater. A favorite for the high school homecoming teas. It grew to be one of our family favorites. We always had these at Christmas time as pecans were in season at that time.

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 1 pound butter room temperature
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp vanilla
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 5 1/2 cup sifted flour
  • Additional sifted powdered sugar for rolling

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. In a large glass bowl, cream the butter. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the flour and chopped pecans. Use your hands to mix well until fully incorporated.
  4. Shape the dough into small oblong pieces. The cookie will shape better if left at room temperature for a while.
  5. Place shaped cookies on ungreased baking sheets and bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes until lightly golden on the bottom.
  6. Cool thoroughly on wire racks and then roll in sifted powdered sugar to coat completely.
  7. Store in a tightly covered container.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my dough too crumbly to shape?

A: Make sure your butter is at room temperature, not cold. If it's still crumbly, let the dough rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes - as the recipe notes, 'the cookie will shape better if left at room temperature for a while.'

Q: Can I make the dough ahead?

A: Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Let it come to room temperature before shaping for easier handling.

Tips and Techniques

This recipe makes a large batch (about 6 dozen cookies), perfect for holiday baking and gift-giving. Use your hands to mix the dough - it helps warm the butter and distribute ingredients evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • pecans: walnuts or almonds
  • all-purpose flour: equal amounts of all-purpose flour

Equipment Needed

  • Large glass mixing bowl
  • Baking sheets
  • Wire cooling racks
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Historical Context

Sand Tarts have been a staple at high school homecoming teas and holiday gatherings across the South for generations. Their delicate, sandy texture comes from the high ratio of butter to flour.