Delicate Lemon Cookies

These cookies are so quick and easy to make.  Years ago my daughter had a little cookie business and sold cookies and bars to my friends for the holidays or a special party.  These cookies were a big hit.  We sure did make a lot of them.

• 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sifted powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans
• Grated rind of 1 whole lemon
• 2/3 cup butter
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
• Additional powdered sugar

Combine first 6 ingredients in a large bowl; stir well.

Place butter in a 2-cup glass measure.  Microwave, uncovered, at LOW (10% power) for 1 to 2 minutes or until softened.  Add butter and extract to flour mixture.  Knead until mixture is well blended and forms a soft dough.

Shape dough into 30 (1-inch) balls.  Arrange 10 balls on a wax paper-lined 12-inch round glass platter.  Microwave, uncovered, at MEDIUM (50% power) for 5 to 7 minutes or until cookies are firm, rotating a quarter-turn every minute.  Let cookies cool on platter 2 minutes.

Transfer cookies to wire racks.  Sift powdered sugar over warm cookies, and let cool completely.  Repeat procedure twice with remaining cookie dough and powdered sugar.  Store cookies in an airtight container.

Yield:  2 1/2 dozen.

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