Pecan Thumbprint Cookies

Photo and recipe from Taste of Home

This recipe was one of the first Christmas recipes my husband requested our first Christmas together. I have to admit, I haven't made them often in the 29 years since then, but he still loves them. Maybe I'll throw a batch together for him this Christmas!

 Pecan Thumbprints

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg white, lightly beaten
• 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/2 cup preserves or jelly of your choice

1. In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolk and vanilla. Combine flour and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well.
2. Shape dough into 1-in. balls; roll in egg white, then in pecans. Using the end of a wooden spoon handle, make an indentation in the center of each ball. Cover and freeze until firm. Transfer cookie dough balls to a large resealable plastic freezer bag. May be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. To prepare cookies without freezing, shape dough into 1-in. balls; roll balls in egg white, then in nuts. Place 2 in. apart on baking sheets coated with cooking spray. Using the end of a wooden spoon handle, make an indentation in the center of each ball. Bake at 350° for 12-14 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks. While warm, fill each with a teaspoonful of preserves. Cool completely.
4. To use frozen cookie dough: Place dough balls 2 in. apart on baking sheets coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 17-20 minutes or until set. Remove to wire racks. While warm, fill each with a teaspoonful of preserves. Cool completely. Yield: about 1-1/2 dozen. 

Day 6 Scripture:

"And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end." ~~ Luke 1:29-33 ~~