1 cup chopped pecans

10 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, grated

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1½ teaspoons kosher salt

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

3 tablespoons shortening

8 ounces raw maple sausage

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone mat. With mixer, combine all ingredients on low speed until well combined. The mixture will be crumbly. Using hands, form mixture into 1-inch balls. Place balls on cookie sheet and gently flatten with tines of a fork. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until browned. Remove to a rack and cool. Serve warm.

Yield: 3 dozen