In a large bowl, beat the butter with the powdered sugar until creamy andsmooth.
Add the vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until well incorporated.
Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and chopped pecans directly to the same bowlwith the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
No need to refrigerate the dough. Using a spoon or a #20 scoop, form ballsthe size of a walnut.
Place the balls on a baking sheet, leaving a small space between them.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the cookies are lightlygolden on the bottom.
Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
Once cool, roll the cookies in powdered sugar until fully coated.
Notes
Nut Size: Chop the pecans into small but not too fine pieces to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the cookies and add a crunchy texture. Measuring Flour: Measure the flour correctly using the "spoon and level" method. Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid adding too much flour, which could make the cookies dense.
Ball Size: Use a measuring spoon or a #20 scoop to make uniformly sized balls. This ensures the cookies bake evenly. Parchment Paper: Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes for easier cleanup and prevents the cookies from sticking.
Cooling: Let the cookies cool completely before rolling them in powdered sugar. If they are warm, the sugar will melt and not adhere well. Roll Twice: For an extra layer of sweetness, you can roll the cookies in powdered sugar a second time after they have rested for a few minutes after the first coating.
Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months.
Variations: Experiment with different nuts like almonds or hazelnuts if you prefer to vary the recipe. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture for an extra hint of flavor.