Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheets with parchment

Cream butter, peanut butter and sugar and salt in the bowl of mixer.

If you are using, add eggs one at a time beating between each addition. (Trust me, you won't miss them!

Sift remaining ingredients into the creamed mixture and beat until dough comes together somewhat. Add pecans, if using, and stir until combined.

Form into one inch balls, place on prepared baking sheets and press with a fork. Dipping the fork into warm water between each cookie will prevent it from sticking.

Bake for 10 to 11 minutes. Just until bottoms are golden. The may appear undercooked on top.

Remove from oven and cool on rack before storing in airtight container