Russian Teacakes

makes 48 cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 1/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

3/4 cup finely chopped hazelnuts

1/4 teaspoon salt

powdered sugar for dusting

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

2. Use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and powdered sugar.

3. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Stir in the flour, chopped hazelnuts, and salt.

5. Form the dough into 1" balls. Set the balls on an ungreased baking sheet about two inches apart.

6. Bake 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not browned.

7. Remove from the oven and roll the cookies in powdered sugar while still warm.

8. Set on a wire rack to cool.

9. After the cookies have cooled completely, sift powdered sugar over top to coat.