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stack of old fashioned butter pecan shortbread cookies with pecan halves and sanding sugar]

Old-Fashioned Butter Pecan Shortbread Cookies

These cookies aren’t just baked treats — they’re memories you can taste. With buttery crumb, toasted pecans, and that hint of cinnamon, they feel like a hug from home. Bake them for the holidays, wrap them up for gifts, or sneak one with your morning coffee. However you serve them, they’ll disappear fast! If you grew up on old-fashioned cookies like this, I’d love to hear your story in the comments. And don’t forget to 📌 save this recipe on Pinterest so you can bake them again and again!
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Ingredients
  

  • 2 sticks salted butter softened
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups flour
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup chopped pecans
  • Whole pecans for topping
  • Sanding sugar optional

Instructions
 

  • Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
  • Add vanilla, mix well.
  • Combine flour, cinnamon, and salt; add to butter mixture.
  • Stir in chopped pecans.
  • Roll into log; chill 1 hour.
  • Slice 1/4-inch thick; top with pecan and sanding sugar.
  • Bake at 350°F for 15–20 min until golden. Cool completely.

Notes

Chill dough before baking for perfect texture.
Sprinkle sugar before baking for sparkle.
Store in tins for a traditional touch.