Ingredients
3/4 cup shortening1 cup packed brown sugar1 large egg temperature2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided2 cups all-purpose flour1 teaspoon baking powder1/2 teaspoon saltFILLING:1 cup finely chopped pecans1/2 cup packed brown sugar1/4 cup heavy whipping creamFrosting of choice, optional
Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, cream shortening and brown sugar until light and fluffy, 5-7 minutes. Beat in egg and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well.
Shape into 1-in. balls. Place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Using the end of a wooden spoon handle, make a 1/2-in.-deep indentation in the center of each ball. Combine filling ingredients; spoon into indentations.
Bake for 9-11 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool for 1 minute before removing from pans to wire racks. If desired, top with frosting.
