Today is National Pecan Cookie Day and there is only one that satisfies me – try this recipe for a copycat version and hope you enjoy.

Combine and set aside 1 3/4 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar, and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder.

Cream 1/2 cup vegetable shortening, 1/2 cup white sugar, and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until smooth. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1 egg (beaten) and beat until smooth. Add flour mixture a little at a time until completely mixed. Stir in 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans with strong wooden spoon (dough will be stiff) until well combined.

Wrap dough in plastic and refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Roll dough into 1″ balls and place on ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten to 1/4″ thickness. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until slightly golden.

Remove to cooling rack. Once completely cooled, store in airtight containers and pretend elves prepared them for you! Enjoy!

As always you can find more at http://www.walterthinnes.com and on Twitter @walterthinnes