PLACE pecans in dry nonstick skillet. Cook over medium heat, shaking pan until nuts are lightly browned. Cool completely. Finely chop.
COMBINE shortening, cheddar and Parmesan cheeses in bowl of electric mixer. Beat at medium speed until well combined, about 2 minutes. Add flour, salt, cayenne and onion powder. Beat about 2 minutes or until a dough forms.
ROLL dough on a sheet of wax paper into a 1-inch diameter log about 12-inches long. Using wax paper as a guide, roll and press log in chopped pecans. Wrap tightly in wax paper and foil. Freeze 2 hours.
HEAT oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment.
CUT log crosswise with sharp knife into 1/4-inch thick slices. Place 1/2-inch apart on prepared baking sheets.
BAKE 10 to 12 minutes or until golden and just firm to the touch. Wafers will spread while baking. Cool on baking sheet.
Unbaked dough will keep, frozen, for 2 months.
Flavor improves with age. Best made a day or two in advance. Wafers will keep in an airtight container at room temperature up to 4 days.
Nutrition
Serving size
(1 wafer)
Calories 60
Calories from Fat50g
Total Fat 5g
Saturated Fat 1g
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Monounsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 5mg
Sodium 70mg
Potassium 0mg
Total Carbohydrates 2g
Dietary Fiber 0g
Sugars 0g
Protein 1g
Vitamin A 0%
Vitamin C 0%
Vitamin D 0%
Calcium 0%
Thiamin 0%
Niacin 0%
Zinc 0%
Riboflavin 0%
Iron 0%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet