YUGOSLAVIAN CHRISTMAS COOKIES

This is an unusual and incredibly sublime cookie.

I had these for the first time over ten years ago at a neighborhood Christmas cookie swap.  When I took my first bite, I remember, I almost swooned!

I loved that they were so unique and unusual.

The crunchy nut and meringue topping over the berry shortbread crust was divine.  But there was something else…. another flavor mixed in that was just wonderful.

Something very familiat that alluded me.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 Pound Unsalted Butter at Room Temperature
• 1/2 Cup Sugar
• 1 Egg Yolk Large
• 1/2 Teaspoon Salt Salt
• 2 1/2 Cups All Purpose Flour
• 4 Large Egg Whites
• 1 Cup Sugar
• 3/4 Cup Ground Walnuts
• 1 Teaspoon Lemon Extract
• 1 Cup Blackberry Jelly
• 1/4 Cup Walnuts Chopped

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Cream butter and sugar together thoroughly; add egg yolk and salt and combine.  Add flour and combine.  Pat mixture into a 9X13 inch pan.

3. Beat egg whites until stiff.  Gradually add 1 cup sugar.  Continue to beat until you reach a meringue consistency.  Gently fold in ground walnuts and lemon extract.

4. Spread jelly over dough mixture in pan.

5. Swirl meringue over jelly.  Sprinkle with chopped walnuts.

6. Bake for about 40 minutes. To cut, use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion.

Original Recipes Visit YUGOSLAVIAN CHRISTMAS COOKIES @ gonnawantseconds.com