1 lb. butter (no substitutions)
1 c. powdered sugar, plus extra for coating cookies
1/2 lb. pecans, chopped
1 tsp. vanilla
Pinch of salt
4 c. all-purpose flour

Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl of electric mixer, combine first 5 ingredients in order listed. Then add flour gradually until mixture is a putty-like consistency (you might need to use your hands to mix in the final additions of flour). Shape spoonfuls of dough into crescents or balls and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until set and barely beginning to turn golden on the edges.

Cool on racks until barely warm, then put into a bag with powdered sugar and shake until covered. Store airtight in refrigerator or freezer.