1 1/2 c. softened butter
1 c. confectioners' sugar
2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 c. finely ground pecans
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla extract
4 tbsp. grated lemon zest
3 to 4 tbsp. granulated sugar

With electric mixer, cream butter and confectioners' sugar together. Mix flour, pecans, salt, vanilla and lemon zest into butter mixture. Gather into 2 balls, wrap in waxed paper and refrigerate for 4 hours.

Roll each dough ball on a lightly floured surface to 1/2 inch thick. Using a star cookie cutter, cut out shapes. Place 1 inch apart on 2 ungreased baking sheets. Sprinkle with granulated sugar. Bake cookies in 325 degree oven for 20 minutes or until they start to brown. Yields 5 dozen.