Sweets of Christmas - Thumbprint Cookies

These have been made at my house every year since before I was born. I don't believe one Christmas has gone by that they haven't donned the Christmas cookie plate. They are one of my Dad's favorites, especially with apricot jam, and are a staple at Christmas.

Thumbprint Cookies
(thank you Betty Crocker)

1/4 c. shortening
1/4 c. butter
1/4 c. brown sugar
1 egg, separated
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 c. flour
1/4 tsp salt
3/4 c. finely chopped walnuts
jam or jelly

(Note: I always double this recipe - it never really makes enough otherwise)
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2. Mix shortening, butter, sugar, egg yolk and vanilla.
3. Blend flour and salt; stir into bowl with other ingredients
4. Roll dough by teaspoonful into balls
5. Beat egg white with fork. Dip balls in egg white and then roll in finely chopped nuts.
6. After placed on cookies sheet, use your thumb to place an indent in the center of each cookie.
7. Bake 10-12 minutes or until set.
8. Cool and fill with your favorite jam.

Note: Using your homemade jams and jellies for these cookies is ideal. The cookie itself has a subtle taste and really accents the deliciousness of homemade jam/jelly that was made with fresh fruit.

ENJOY!