Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, chopped pecans, and salt.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

1. Using your hands, roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden while the tops remain pale.
2. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Dust with Powdered Sugar

1. While the cookies are still warm, roll them in additional powdered sugar to coat them completely. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.
2. Once cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar for an extra snowy look.