Pecan Shortbread Cookies (Mexican Wedding Cookies)

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 egg yolk, beaten (for topping)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 45 minutes (including baking time)
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and confectioners' sugar until smooth.
2. Add the baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt, and mix well.
3. Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in the chopped pecans.
5. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet.
6. Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
7. Brush each cookie with beaten egg yolk.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Each cookie provides about 200 calories (depending on the exact ingredients used).
• Fat: The cookies contain saturated fats from butter.
• Carbohydrates: The flour and sugar provide carbohydrates.
• Protein: The pecans add protein to the cookies.

Dish Characteristics:

• The cookies are shortbread-style with a crunchy exterior and a slightly soft center.
• The pecans add a unique flavor and crunchy texture to the cookies.
• The cookies are slightly sweet and have a rich buttery flavor.

User Comments:

• "These cookies are so delicious! The combination of pecans and shortbread is perfect."
• "I love the crunchy texture of these cookies. The pecans give them a unique flavor."
• "These cookies are great for an after-dinner treat or as a gift."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to use softened butter for best results. Do not use melted butter.
• When baking, keep an eye on the cookies as they can easily burn. Check them after 15 minutes and adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for several days.