Pecan Shortbread Cookies

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There is nothing quite like a classic Pecan Shortbread Cookies. Bake a batch for yourself, or gift them to loved ones during the holiday season.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 1/4 ounces pecan halves, toasted
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure almond extract

Preparation

Step 1

Cream together butter, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, until mixture is light in color, 3 to 4 minutes.

Add flour, salt, pecans, and almond extract, and mix until combined and the pecans start to break up.

Wrap dough in plastic wrap, and place in the refrigerator at least 1 hour or overnight. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Using 2 1/2-inch diameter fluted cookie cutters, cut cookies, and place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Return to refrigerator 1 hour more.

Heat oven to 325°F. Sprinkle cookies with remaining 2 tablespoons sugar, and bake until lightly browned, 15 to 20 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack, and let cool.