Christmas Wreath Cookies

Family traditions come alive at this time of the year - holiday recipes handed down from generation to generation don buffet tables, dining room and kitchen tables.  The one constant from my childhood is the making of cookies around Christmas.  Mom, my sister and I all took part in the cookie making process.  This recipe I am sharing is one that we have made year after year.  So grab a mixing bowl from the cupboard, bring your small children into the kitchen with you and start making your own holiday cookie making tradition.

1/2 cup soft butter

1 egg separated - save the egg white

1 cup sifted regular flour

3/4 cup chopped nuts (walnut, pecan - whatever you like)

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1/2 tsp. vanilla

1/2 tsp. salt

Strawberry or any flavor jam you like

Non stick cooking spray

Begin by sifting together the flour and the salt.  With a handheld mixer at medium speed, mix the butter until creamy.  Add the sugar and egg yolk and vanilla extract until incorporated.  Next add in the flour until blended.

Form balls (1 teaspoon size) and dip in slightly beaten egg white. Next roll in nuts.  Place on a cookie sheet that has been sprayed with nonstick spray. Make a depression in center of each ball.

Bake for about 25 minutes in a preheated 300 degree oven.  While cookies are warm fill with jam. Approximate yield: 24

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