Maple Pecan Cookies

• VEGETARIAN

Ingredients

1. 2 sticks (8 ounces) unsalted butter, softened
2. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
3. 1 large egg yolk
4. 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
5. 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
6. 2 cups all-purpose flour
7. 1 1/4 cups pecans, coarsely chopped (4 1/2 ounces)

1. In a medium bowl, beat the butter with an electric mixer until pale and creamy, about 3 minutes. Gradually beat in the sugar until well blended.
2. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk with the maple syrup and vanilla. Drizzle the egg-yolk mixture into the butter, beating at low speed until incorporated.
3. Using a wooden spoon, stir in the flour and pecans. Divide the dough in half and shape into 2 disks. Wrap each disk in plastic and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight. Let the dough stand at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling it out.
4. Preheat the oven to 325°. Roll out each disk of dough 1/4 inch thick between 2 sheets of wax paper. Cut the dough into 2-inch rounds and transfer to baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden. Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool.