LEMON CREAM SANDWICH COOKIE

Adapted from Better Homes and Garden Christmas Cookies 2007

Makes about 36

COOKIES:

1 cup butter flavored shortening

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons finely shredded lemon peel

1) Beat shortening in a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds or until the shortening starts to get creamy

2) Add granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt and beat until combined. Scrape sides of bowl occasionally.

3) Add egg and vanilla and mix until combined.

4) Gradually add flour and beat in as much as you can with the mixer. Stir in any remaining flour and the lemon peel.

5) Divide dough in half. Roll each portion into 10-inch long logs by placing dough on wax paper along the width of the paper. Fold waxed paper over top of dough, and push along the edge of the paper and dough, forming a log. Wrap excess paper around log, and wrap in plastic wrap or zip-top bag and store in the refrigerator for 1 to 3 hours or until firm. Or Place all dough in a zip-top bag and store 1 hour, until slightly firm. Remove from refrigerator and roll into 1 inch balls (or slightly less) place on cookie sheet and press to flatten. Bake the same as the slices.

6) Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Unwrap dough logs. And cut into 1/4 inch thick slices. Place slices about 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes or until cookies are set, but not too brown.

7) Cool on cookie sheet for 1 or 2 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.

8) While cookies are cooling make LEMONY CREAM CHEESE FILLING

9) Spread (or use a pastry bag and pipe) about 1 table spoon of filling or Lemon Curd on 1/2 the cookie. Top with cookie to make a sandwich. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

LEMONY CREAM CHEESE FILLING:

Makes 1 2/3 cups (enough for at least a double batch of cookies)

8 oz Package Cream Cheese, softened

2/3 cup butter, softened

3 1/3 cups powdered sugar

1 tablespoon finely shredded lemon peel

1) Beat Cream Cheese and Butter in a large mixing bowl, with an electric mixer until smooth.

2) Gradually beat in powdered sugar until combined.

3) Stir in lemon peel