Cheddar Cheese "Cookies"

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
1/2 pound extra-sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted

Sift together the flour, salt and cayenne pepper in a medium sized bowl. Grate cheddar as finely as possible. In the large bowl of an electric mixer, cream butter. Add grated cheese and beat until thoroughly blended. On low speed, gradually add dry ingredients and beat until incorporated.

On a lightly floured surface, roll dough into a log about 10 inches long (make a longer log if you want smaller "cookies," cutting log into two for easier handling). Roll log in chopped pecans, making sure to cover entire outer surface with nuts. Wrap in parchment or wax paper and refrigerate dough log until firm or ready to bake.

When ready to bake, slice dough about 1/4 inch thick and place a couple of inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet.

Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven, 12 to 15 minutes or until lightly browned.