Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of the powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 1 minute).
- Step 2: Beat in the vanilla bean paste and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Step 3: Scoop the dough by rounded teaspoons and quickly roll them into small, smooth balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place the cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Step 4: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden and the cookies are set. Immediately transfer the cookies to a wire rack.
- Step 5: While the cookies are still warm (but not hot), roll them generously in the remaining powdered sugar until completely coated. Let them cool completely, then roll them a second time in powdered sugar for a maximum "Winter Wonderland" effect.
Notes
- Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week; layering them with wax paper helps keep the "snow" coating intact.
- For the fluffiest, whitest coating, ensure you wait until the cookies are completely cool before applying that second, generous roll in powdered sugar.
- Serve these delicate, nutty cookies alongside a warm mug of spiced hot chocolate or a splash of Irish cream coffee for the ultimate cozy winter treat.
- If your softened butter is very warm, chill the rolled dough balls briefly (about 10 minutes) before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American