These are the most traditional cookie in our house. There has never been a Christmas in my lifetime where these have been missing. They are my personal favorite. I’ve included slightly different recipes for a pecan version and a walnut version. They’re very close in flavor so you can try both and pick your favorite. The walnut version is my grandmother’s recipe and it’s the one I grew up with but during a time when I didn’t have access to this recipe, I found the pecan version and so I am including it because it is also very good. (and fast and easy!)

Pecan Yule Logs

1 C. butter
4 T. powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling in)
1 t. vanilla
2 C. flour
1 C. pecans, chopped

Mix all ingredients together. Form into logs, balls or crescents. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes. Just before cool, roll in additional powdered sugar. Can be placed close together on the cookie sheet since they don’t spread.

From the kitchen of: Laurie Neader

Walnut Yule Logs

1 C. butter
1 C. sifted confectioner’s sugar
2 t. vanilla
1 egg
2 C. sifted flour
1 C. chopped walnuts
1 1/2 C. rolled oats (Quick or Old-Fashioned are fine)

Heat oven to 325 degrees. Beat butter and sugar until creamy. Add vanilla and egg and beat until fluffy. Add flour; mix thoroughly. Stir in nutmeats and oats. Dough will be stiff. Shape into logs and place on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake about 20 minutes. Cool. Frost with a confectioner’s sugar frosting or roll in powdered sugar.

From the kitchen of: Ella Meyer