Noel Balls

Directions

1. 1
   In a food processor, pulse the pecans until finely ground.
2. 2
   In a medium bowl, whisk the ground pecans with the flour, dates and salt.
3. 3
   In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle, combine the butter with 3/4 cup of the confectioners sugar and the vanilla and beat at medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. 4
   Add the flour mixture and beat at low speed until just combined.
5. 5
   Preheat the oven to 350.
6. 6
   Line 2 large rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. 7
   Spread the remaining 3 cups of confectioners sugar in a large pie pan.
8. 8
   Working in 3 batches, using a 1-ounce ice cream scoop or a tablespoon, scoop the dough into 1-inch balls.
9. 9
   Arrange the balls on the prepared sheets at least 1 inch apart.
10. 10
    Bake the cookies for 15 minutes, until lightly browned on the bottom; rotate the baking sheets from top to bottom and front to back halfway through baking.
11. 11
    Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then roll them in the confectioners sugar until completely coated.
12. 12
    Let cool completely, then roll again in the confectioners sugar.