Only A Few Simple Ingredients To Make These Sweet Little Treats
An Intriguing Find from the Recipe Tin
When I pulled this handwritten recipe out of the old recipe tin, I was intrigued. There was no title, just five simple ingredients, and a very short jumble of instructions. After looking over the ingredients: butter, flour, sugar, and pecans, I figured that this recipe was for something similar to Mexican Wedding Cakes (which I’ve always loved) and so this card moved to the top of the stack of “must makes” for the Recipe Tin Project.
The Recipe Tin Project, as I fondly call it, is a little project where I am cooking my way through an old tin of handwritten recipes. It’s chock full of old recipe cards – most of which seem to be from the ’60s and ’70s – and there are everlasting classics like Chocolate Cake and some not so timeless creations like Jellied Chicken Gumbo. To read more about the contents of the tin and the project, you can go to the first post here.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These little cookie balls fall into the “classics” category of that tin. They’re buttery and crumbly and ridiculously easy. I’m a little bit in love with them. I was right in that they are like Mexican Wedding Cakes. They’re sweet, dense little pecan-speckled balls that are genius in their simplicity and utility. They are made of only five ingredients (six if you count the powdered sugar for dusting) and I doubt that there is an easier cookie out there to make.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl
- Fork for mixing
- Baking sheet
- Ziplock bag for dusting with powdered sugar (optional)
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup powdered sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix together with a fork until well blended.
- Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch across, and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly golden.
- Let them cool completely. If desired, place the cookies in a ziplock bag filled with powdered sugar and shake gently to coat.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade treats!
Tips for Success
Ensure that your butter is properly softened for easy mixing. Also, keeping an eye on the baking time will prevent the cookies from becoming too brown.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds if pecans are not your favorite. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
These cookies are a delightful treat and perfect for indulging in moderation. They provide a satisfying combination of buttery richness and nutty texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies before coating them in powdered sugar. Just thaw and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
What is the best way to store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
These Pecan Cookie Balls are a total winner, and I know I’ll be making them again and again throughout the years. This is definitely one to add to your own recipe box. I invite you to try this recipe and share your experience. Happy baking!
