Mom'S Pecan Puffs
Deliciously flaky pecan puffs coated in sweet confectioners sugar, offering a buttery, nutty flavor perfect for holiday treats or special occasions that delight all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the butter until soft.
- Add 2 tablespoons sugar and blend until creamy.
- Add vanilla to the mixture.
- Mix ground pecans with flour.
- Stir the pecan-flour mixture into the butter mixture.
- Roll the dough into small balls.
- Place the balls on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 45 minutes.
- While hot, roll the puffs in confectioners sugar.
- When cool, roll them in confectioners sugar again, using a paper bag if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you don't have ground pecans, you can substitute with ground walnuts or almonds. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier blending. Also, keep an eye on your puffs while baking; they should be lightly golden but not browned. For a twist, add a pinch of cinnamon to the flour mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan puffs are delightful as a dessert or a sweet snack alongside coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with a cup of hot chocolate or a chilled glass of milk. For a festive presentation, serve them on a platter dusted with extra confectioners sugar. They also make excellent additions to holiday cookie trays or gift boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pecan puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at a low temperature until heated through, ensuring they stay soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Pecan Puffs contains roughly 65 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute ground walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts to create a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the nuts are finely ground for the best texture in your puffs.
How do I know when the puffs are done baking?
The puffs are done when they are lightly golden on the bottom and firm to the touch. They should not be overly browned. You can also check by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time, shape it into balls, and freeze them. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).