Wow! I've been looking for this recipe for years. My mother used to make them often, and I lost her recipe. Thank you so much! She always called them "Michigan Stones". Full recipe below 👇 💬

Step 1: Preparing the oven and baking tray

Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures even cooking without them browning too much on the bottom.

Step 2: Beat the butter and sugar together.

In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter and confectioners' sugar. Beat until light and fluffy. This step is important as it forms the base of a soft, well-structured biscuit.

Don't rush. The creamy butter makes all the difference.

Step 3: Shaping the dough
Add the vanilla extract and mix. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, mixing just enough to form a soft dough. Avoid overmixing, as this will make the cookies tough instead of crumbly.

The dough should be easy to mold and smooth to the touch.

Step 4: Incorporate the nuts.
Gently incorporate the chopped nuts, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Each cookie should offer a nutty crunch with every bite.

Walnuts are a traditional ingredient, but they also bring a warm and comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with the buttery base.

Step 5: Shape the cookies

Form small balls of dough about 2.5 cm in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, about 5 cm apart. They will spread out a little during baking.

There's no need to flatten them. Their natural shape is part of their traditional charm.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, watching them closely at the end. They will be ready when the edges are lightly golden. Do not overbake them: they should remain pale and soft.

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Finishing with a Light Dusting

Once cooled, you can dust the cookies with powdered sugar, if desired. This step is optional, but it adds a charming finishing touch and an extra hint of sweetness.

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