There’s something wonderfully timeless about a cookie recipe that relies on a handful of simple ingredients and lets butter and pecans do most of the talking. Georgia O’Keeffe’s Pecan Butterballs are a delicate, old-fashioned treat with a rich buttery texture, plenty of nutty flavor, and a snowy coating of powdered sugar.
These little cookies are sometimes associated with the classic pecan sandie-style family of butter cookies, but what makes butterballs so appealing is their simplicity. There’s no elaborate frosting or decoration to fuss over. The dough is shaped into small balls, baked until lightly golden, and rolled in powdered sugar while still warm.
They’re especially lovely during the holidays, but there’s no reason to save them for December. A tin of these cookies is just as welcome alongside afternoon coffee or tea.
What Are Pecan Butterballs?
Pecan butterballs are small, tender cookies made with butter, flour, finely chopped pecans, and powdered sugar. They have a crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture rather than the chewy texture of a traditional chocolate chip cookie.
The cookies are typically baked as small rounds and then coated generously with powdered sugar. The warm cookies absorb some of the sugar, creating a delicate coating that clings to the outside.
As they cool, the butter firms up and the cookies become wonderfully tender and crumbly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list is refreshingly simple.
- Butter: Provides the rich flavor and tender texture that define these cookies. Use softened butter for easier mixing.
- All-purpose flour: Gives the cookies their structure.
- Pecans: Finely chopped pecans add a buttery, nutty flavor and subtle crunch.
- Powdered sugar: Used both in the dough and for coating the finished cookies.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a little extra warmth and sweetness.
- Salt: Balances the richness of the butter and sweetness of the sugar.
For the best flavor, use fresh pecans and chop them fairly finely. Large pieces can make the dough more difficult to shape.
How to Make Georgia O’Keeffe’s Pecan Butterballs
1. Prepare the Pecans
If desired, lightly toast the pecans before using them. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast briefly until fragrant, then let them cool completely.
This step is optional, but it can bring out the natural nuttiness of the pecans.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
