RED, GREEN & CHOCOLATE Layered BUTTER COOKIES
1 cup butter, softened …………...............................1-1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 egg ………………………………........................... 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
2-1/2 cups flour ..................................................... red & green food coloring
2 oz (2 squares) semisweet or unsweetened chocolate, melted
1 TB red gelatin powder (cherry, cranberry, strawberry)
1 TB green lime gelatin powder ~OR~ 1 TB pistachio pudding mix powder
(NOTE: If you want a very strong fruit flavor, you can add 2 TB or more of the jello powder, but I just like a subtle flavor and would rather have the chocolate be more dominant)
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In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla. Gradually add flour and mix well. Divide dough in three portions.
(1) Beat the red gelatin, plus 2-3 drops red food coloring into one portion. (2) Beat the green gelatin (or pistachio pudding) plus 2-3 drops green food coloring to another portion (3) Beat the melted chocolate into the last portion (if you do the chocolate last, you can use the same beater without washing it first).
Line an 8" square pan with waxed paper. Press the green layer as evenly as possible over the bottom (using your fingers). Then press the chocolate layer over the green layer. Then press the red layer evenly on the top. (HINT: If you dampen your fingers, it's easier). Smooth over the top layer (with dampened fingers), and put the pan into the refrigerator to chill for several hours.
Pull the chilled layered dough out of the pan by the waxed paper. Cut it into about 1/2'' slices. Put 1-1/2'' apart on baking sheets.
Bake at 375° for 5-7 minutes or until set. Cool for 2 minutes before removing to wire racks. Repeat with remaining dough. Yield: about 4-5 dozen.