Ina's Pecan Shortbread Baked with Love

My auntie and uncle are visiting from Shanghai and Pecan Shortbread is their absolute FAVORITE type of treat. SO I found a recipe from Ina Gartner and decided to cut them into HEART shapes for fun. Cute right? I'm sure they will be much appreciated!

Ingredients: 20 to 24 cookies

3 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature
1 c sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
3 1/2 c all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 c small diced pecans

Prep:

1. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, mix together the butter and sugar until they are just combined. Add the vanilla and almond extracts.

2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour and salt, then add them to the butter/sugar mixture. Add the pecans and mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together. Dump onto a surface dusted with flour and shape into a flat disk. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Roll the dough 1/2-inch thick and cut with cookie cutter (any shape you like). Place the cookies on an ungreased baking sheet.

4. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges begin to brown. Allow to cool to room temperature and serve.