Bien Cuit’s Masala Pecan Sandies Recipe

In the world of baking, few treats can rival the classic pecan sandie. This delightful cookie has a rich history, and each bite brings warmth and nostalgia. Today, we take a traditional recipe and give it a unique twist by adding aromatic spices, resulting in Bien Cuit’s Masala Pecan Sandies. This recipe will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also introduce an exciting array of flavors that will transport your palate to new heights.

Ingredients

To create these delectable cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup pecans, chopped (toasted for enhanced flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Masala Spice Blend:

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Masala Spice Blend

In a small bowl, combine all the masala spices: ground cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Mix well and set aside. This aromatic blend will elevate your pecan sandies to new heights.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Spices

Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the vanilla extract and the prepared masala spice blend. Beat until fully incorporated and fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to tough cookies.

Step 5: Fold in the Pecans

Add the chopped and toasted pecans into the dough. Gently fold them in, ensuring an even distribution throughout the mixture.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a sheet of plastic wrap and shape it into a log. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to slice.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Slice and Bake

Once the dough is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem soft when you first take them out of the oven.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy these Masala Pecan Sandies warm or at room temperature!

Final Thoughts

Bien Cuit’s Masala Pecan Sandies are a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation—a perfect addition to your cookie repertoire. The warmth of the spices combined with the crunch of toasted pecans creates a unique balance that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Whether you’re looking for a cozy treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea or a creative dessert to bring to a gathering, these cookies are sure to leave a lasting impression. Happy baking!