Description
Pecan Delight Bites bring Southern charm to sweet treats with rich, caramelized pecans nestled in buttery shortbread. Crisp edges and gooey centers promise a delectable journey through classic Southern comfort that will delight pastry enthusiasts and nutty dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups finely chopped pecans
- 1 cup softened butter
Flavoring Ingredients:
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
Finishing Ingredients:
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating it to 300°F (150°C), creating an ideal baking environment with even temperature distribution.
- In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt, ensuring a uniform texture and eliminating any potential lumps.
- Using an electric mixer or hand whisk, cream the softened butter, honey, and vanilla extract in a separate large bowl until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and fully integrated.
- Gradually incorporate the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula to form a cohesive, crumbly dough that holds together when pressed.
- Carefully fold the finely chopped pecans into the dough, distributing them evenly to guarantee a consistent nutty flavor in every bite.
- Delicately roll the dough into small, uniform balls approximately 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) in diameter, placing them with slight spacing on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Position the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, watching for a light golden color and firm texture that indicates the cookies are perfectly done.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pecan bites rest for 3-4 minutes to stabilize their structure.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack, allowing them to cool completely and develop a delicate, crisp exterior.
- Once cooled, generously dust the pecan bites with powdered sugar, creating an elegant, sweet finish that enhances their visual and flavor profile.
Notes
- These delicate pecan bites are a melt-in-your-mouth treat perfect for afternoon tea or holiday gatherings.
- Chopping pecans finely ensures an even, delightful texture throughout each cookie bite.
- Low and slow baking at 300°F prevents burning and allows the cookies to develop a gentle, golden color.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar to achieve a smooth, elegant finish.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week, keeping them fresh and maintaining their delicate crumbly texture.
- Use room temperature butter for smoother blending and easier dough formation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg