Apple Pie Cookies

Source: Jan Taylor

1/2 cup shortening
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt

Filling
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 medium tart apples, peeled and grated (about 2 cups)
3/4 cup water

Glaze
4 tablespoons water
Red and green liquid food coloring

In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar. Beat in egg, milk and vanilla extract.

Combine flour, cream of tartar, baking soda and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture.

Divide in half. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours or until easy to handle (dough will be soft).

Meanwhile, combine filling ingredients in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until apples are softened and mixture is thickened; cool.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion of dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut with a 2 1/2-inch apple cookie cutter dipped in flour. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Spread with 2 teaspoon of filling to within 1/4 inch of edge.

Top with another cutout and seal edges. Bake at 375 degrees F for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on wire racks.

In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons water and 18 drops red food coloring. In another bowl, combine remaining water and 6 drops green food coloring. Using a pastry brush, "paint" apples red with green leaves.

Makes 2 dozen.

ENJOY!