Step 1

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, eggs, butter and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, reduce the heat to a simmer and stir in the pecans. Simmer for about 8 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla.

Step 2

Bring the crusts to room temperature. Unroll one on a lightly floured surface and cut circles using a 4-inch circle cutter. Re-roll the dough and repeat until all of the dough has been used. You should end up with about 24 circles.

Step 3

Place a heaping tablespoon of the pecan filling mixture in the center of a pie crust circle. Lightly moisten the edges of the crust with water, then fold the crust over, crimping the edges with a dinner fork. Repeat the process until all of the pie crusts have been used.

Step 4

In a large dutch oven, heat about 1 inch oil in the bottom to 350° F. Fry the pies in batches for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side - or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels then lightly dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm.