Georgia OKeeffes Pecan Butterballs
These delightful pecan butterballs are a family favorite inspired by the famous artist Georgia O'Keeffe's love for her native New Mexico. They are rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, making them perfect for any occasion or as a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea.
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 parchment paper
- 1 food processor (optional for pecans)
- 1 cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans Toasting the pecans before chopping enhances the flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup additional powdered sugar for rolling Optional for rolling the cookies.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, finely chopped pecans, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Use your hands to roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow cooling on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Once cooled, you can roll the butterballs in additional powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch if desired.
Notes
For a more pronounced pecan flavor, you can toast the pecans before chopping them.
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
They also make a great gift when packed in a decorative box!