Walnut Shortbread

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Pulse walnuts in a food processor until finely ground. Transfer to a bowl, and whisk in flour and salt. Beat butter, sugar, and vanilla until pale and fluffy. Slowly add walnut mixture, and beat until just combined. Butter an 8-inch round cake pan. Transfer dough to pan. Place a piece of plastic wrap on dough, and use it to press the dough evenly into pan (this will prevent the dough from sticking to your fingers). Cut dough into 8 wedges using a paring knife. Prick all over with a wooden skewer or fork. Bake until golden brown and firm in center, 30 to 35 minutes. Transfer pan to a wire rack. Recut into wedges and prick again. Let cool slightly. Dust with confectioners' sugar. Looking for more dessert ideas? Check out our homemade chocolate chip cookie recipes, apple pie recipes, and chocolate cake recipes.