Pecan Rounds - Cookies

These unique cookies use pecan paste, which you make by pureeing toasted pecans, as the base. Much less flour than regular cookies, and only one egg! They make fabulous gifts when stacked 4-5 high and tied with ribbon.

• Ready In: 17 mins
• Serves: 48

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 cups  toasted pecan pieces
• 1⁄2 cup butter, cut into pieces
• 1⁄2 cup granulated sugar
• 1⁄2 cup  firmly packed brown sugar
• 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1⁄2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1  egg
• 1  teaspoon vanilla
• 1 1⁄2 cups flour

Directions

1. To toast pecan pieces: Spread nuts in single layer in shallow baking pan. Bake at 350°F for 5 to 10 minutes or until light golden brown; watch carefully and stir once or twice. Cool.
2. Place nuts in food processor; cover. Process by pulsing with on/off action until paste forms (will appear grainy).
3. Add butter, sugars, baking soda and baking powder; process just until combined.
4. Add egg and vanilla; process just until combined.
5. Add flour. Process by pulsing with on/off action just until combined.
6. Transfer to large bowl. Cover; refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour until firm.
7. Heat oven to 375 Degrees F.
8. Shape dough into 1-inch balls and roll in additional granulated sugar to coat. If you choose to use a cookie scooper, you must then hand-roll each ball for best, optimal results. It's worth the extra step; I've tried both ways!
9. Place, 2 inches apart, on ungreased or Silpat-lined cookie sheets. Flatten slightly with bottom of glass, dipping in sugar to prevent sticking.
10. Bake 7 to 9 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle additional granulated sugar over warm cookies for extra sparkle. Cool for 2 minutes; remove from cookie sheets. Cool on wire racks.