Mama's Pecan Balls - A Sweet Tradition for the Season!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter (2 sticks), softened to room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted (plus extra for rolling)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups flour, sifted
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 2 cups pecans, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep:
   • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and sifted powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients:
   • Mix in the vanilla extract.
   • Add the sifted flour and kosher salt, mixing until a dough forms. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. The dough may seem crumbly initially, but keep mixing until it comes together.
4. Incorporate Pecans:
   • Mix in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Shape and Bake:
   • Use a cookie scoop (approximately 1-1½ tbsp) to scoop the dough onto the prepared parchment paper.
   • Use your hands to round the dough into balls.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
6. Roll in Powdered Sugar:
   • Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the pan for 5 minutes.
   • Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar, coating them generously.
   • Transfer the coated cookies to a wire cooling rack.
7. Double Coating:
   • After the cookies have cooled for 30 minutes, roll them again in powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Allow the Pecan Balls to cool completely before serving. Share these delicious treats with loved ones and savor the joy of Mama's special recipe.