Cherry Nut Topped Cookies

Yield: 4 dozen cookies

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/3 cup chopped red candied cherries
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup cherry preserves or strawberry jelly
• 1/2 teaspoon confectioners' sugar

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add vanilla extract, almond and egg; blend well.
4. Stir in flour and baking powder. mix well.
5. Divide dough into 4 equal parts. On a lightly floured surface, shape each part into a 12 x 3/4 inch roll; place on ungreased cookie sheets. Using handle of a wooden spoon or finger make an indentation about 1/2 inch wide and 1/4 inch deep, lengthwise down the center of each roll.
6. In a small bowl, combine candied cherries, pecans and preserves. Fill each dough indentation with 2 tablespoons of the cherry mixture.
7. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until light golden brown.
8. Cool for 10 minutes; cut each log diagonally into 12 pieces. Dust lightly with confectioners' sugar.