Sand cookies, also known as sandies or Mexican wedding cookies, are delicious and delicate treats that melt in your mouth. Here's a simple recipe to make these delightful cookies:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Additional powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This can take about 2-3 minutes.

3. Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.

5. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until the dough comes together and there are no dry flour pockets.

6. Add Chopped Nuts: Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts. These add a delightful nutty crunch to your sand cookies.

7. Shape the Cookies: Take a small amount of dough, about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons, and roll it into a ball. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.

8. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The tops of the cookies should remain pale.

9. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They will be very fragile when hot.

10. Dust with Powdered Sugar (Optional): Once the cookies have cooled slightly but are still warm to the touch, you can gently dust them with additional powdered sugar. This step is optional but adds a lovely finishing touch.

11. Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. They will firm up as they cool.

12. Enjoy: Once completely cooled, your sand cookies are ready to be enjoyed. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

These sand cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holidays to special gatherings. Their crumbly texture and sweet, nutty flavor make them a favorite treat for people of all ages. Enjoy!