Pecan Shortbread Sticks: A Deliciously Buttery and Nutty Snack

Shortbread is a classic treat known for its rich, buttery flavor and crumbly texture. Traditionally associated with Scottish baking, shortbread has become a beloved snack worldwide. But why not take this classic treat and elevate it by adding a delicious nutty twist? Enter Pecan Shortbread Sticks—a variation of the traditional shortbread that adds the earthy sweetness of pecans for extra flavor and crunch.

These pecan shortbread sticks are incredibly easy to make, and their delicate, crumbly texture makes them the perfect snack to accompany a cup of tea or coffee. Whether you're planning a family gathering, a holiday treat, or just a simple afternoon indulgence, these shortbread sticks with pecans are sure to be a hit. The buttery base, combined with the crunchy, slightly caramelized pecans, creates a mouthwatering treat that will melt in your mouth.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making Pecan Shortbread Sticks, share tips for achieving the perfect texture, and provide ideas for variations and serving suggestions. Let’s get baking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious Pecan Shortbread Sticks, gather the following ingredients:

For the Shortbread Sticks:

• 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch (this helps achieve the crumbly texture)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (60g) pecans, chopped (lightly toasted for extra flavor)

These ingredients come together to create a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread with a nutty crunch. The cornstarch helps create the perfect crumbly texture, while the pecans add a rich, slightly caramelized flavor when baked.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pecans

Start by chopping the pecans into small pieces. You can toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes to enhance their flavor, but this is optional. Toasting will deepen the flavor and provide a more pronounced nuttiness, but you can skip this step if you prefer.

Once the pecans are ready, set them aside.

2. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will help the shortbread sticks bake evenly and prevent them from sticking to the pan.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. These dry ingredients create the base for the shortbread and give it that delicate, crumbly texture.

4. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes. The lightness of the butter and sugar mixture is essential for the melt-in-your-mouth texture of the shortbread.

5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until everything is just incorporated. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.

6. Add the Pecans

Fold the chopped pecans into the dough. Use a spatula or spoon to gently mix them in, ensuring that the pecans are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

7. Shape the Dough into Sticks

Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet. Using your hands or a rolling pin, shape the dough into a rectangular slab about 1/2 inch thick. You can use a sharp knife to cut the dough into even sticks (about 1 inch wide and 3 inches long), or you can use a cookie cutter for more creative shapes.

8. Bake the Shortbread Sticks

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges of the shortbread sticks are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary. The shortbread should be firm to the touch but still slightly soft in the center.

9. Let the Shortbread Cool

Once the shortbread sticks are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time allows the shortbread to firm up and hold its shape.

10. Serve and Enjoy

Once the shortbread sticks have cooled completely, they’re ready to be served. Enjoy them as an afternoon snack with a hot beverage or package them up as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

Tips for Perfecting Your Pecan Shortbread Sticks

• Use Softened Butter: It’s essential to use softened butter for this recipe. Cold butter will not mix well with the sugar and will result in a denser dough, which could affect the texture of your shortbread. Leave the butter out at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before baking.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Shortbread dough should be mixed just until the ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can result in a tough texture, so be gentle when combining the ingredients.
• Toast the Pecans for Extra Flavor: While you can use raw pecans, toasting them beforehand brings out their natural oils and deepens the flavor, giving the shortbread an extra nutty richness.
• Store Properly: Store your Pecan Shortbread Sticks in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Variations to Try

While these Pecan Shortbread Sticks are delicious on their own, here are a few variations you can try to customize the flavor:

1. Chocolate Dipped Shortbread: For a decadent twist, dip the cooled shortbread sticks into melted dark or white chocolate. Let the chocolate set before serving for an indulgent treat.
2. Citrus Zest Addition: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the pecans beautifully.
3. Spiced Shortbread: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough to create a spiced version of these shortbread sticks. The warm spices add an extra layer of comfort to the cookies.
4. Use Other Nuts: If you prefer a different nut, try substituting the pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the shortbread.
5. Coconut Pecan Shortbread: Mix in 1/4 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut to the dough for an extra tropical flair that complements the pecans and adds more texture.

Health Benefits of Pecan Shortbread Sticks

While these shortbread sticks are undeniably a treat, they do offer some health benefits thanks to their wholesome ingredients:

1. Pecans for Healthy Fats: Pecans are a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and help reduce inflammation.
2. Rich in Antioxidants: Pecans also contain antioxidants, including vitamin E, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress.
3. A Source of Fiber: The nuts in these shortbread sticks provide fiber, which is essential for digestive health and keeping you feeling fuller for longer.
4. Low Sodium: These shortbread sticks are low in sodium, making them a better option than many store-bought snacks that are often high in salt.

Conclusion

Pecan Shortbread Sticks are a delightful, buttery treat that combines the richness of shortbread with the nutty crunch of pecans. Whether you enjoy them with a hot cup of tea, as a dessert, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, these shortbread sticks are sure to impress.

With their crumbly texture, delicate flavor, and easy preparation, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. The addition of pecans enhances the shortbread, making them even more irresistible and memorable. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and bake a batch of these delightful Pecan Shortbread Sticks today!