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Cherry Nut Cookies

So pretty with a dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are fabulous!

—SUSAN WESTERFIELD ALBUQUERQUE, NM



PREP: 25 MIN. • BAKE: 20 MIN./BATCH • MAKES: 25 COOKIES


1 package (6 ounces) golden raisins and cherries

1/4 cup sugar

3 tablespoons cherry juice blend

Dash ground cinnamon

1/2 cup butter, softened

1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese, softened

1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 white chocolate Toblerone candy bar (3.52 ounces), finely chopped

1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts, toasted

2 teaspoons water

1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar

1. In a small saucepan, combine first four ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 6-8 minutes or until most of the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally. Cool.

2.  Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add flour.

3. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth, about 3 minutes. Roll into a 12 1/2-in. square; cut into 2 1/2-in. squares.

4. Stir candy and walnuts into fruit mixture. Drop filling by tablespoonfuls onto center of each square. Bring two opposite corners to center; moisten edges with water and pinch together.

5. Place 1 in. apart on lightly greased baking sheets. Bake 16-18 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.

6. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar. Store in an airtight container.