Sugared Pecan Balls

These are super addicting and a holiday FAVE! (source: Real Simple Magazine)

Contributed by Megan Porta from pipandebby.com.

Published Jan 6, 2012

Serves: 36

Total time: 1 hr, 20 min

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pecans
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon almond extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the pecans on a rimmed baking sheet and toast in oven, tossing occasionally, until fragrant, 6 to 8 minutes.; let cool. In a food processor, process the pecans until finely ground.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the ground pecans, flour and salt; set aside. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and 1/3 cup of the sugar on medium-high until light and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Beat in the almond extract.
3. Reduce mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Shape the dough into balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and place 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
4. Bake until just beginning to brown, 12 to 14 minutes. Let cool slightly on the baking sheets, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Place the remaining sugar in a bowl. Roll the cookies in the sugar to coat.