Fruit and Nut Cream Swirl Cookies Recipe

In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, sugar, egg and vanilla . Beat until light and fluffy, scraping the bowl occasionally.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powde r, and salt . Add to creamed mixture, half at a time, beating until incorporated. Refrigerate at least 1 hour until firm.

Place prepared dried fruit , pecans , orange zest, brown sugar, and cream cheese in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the metal blade. Process until nuts and fruit are finely chopped.

On a lightly floured piece of plastic wrap, quickly roll chilled dough into a 10-inch square.

Spread the fruit mixture over the dough, leaving 1/2-inch edge at both ends of dough. Roll up tightly, jelly roll style. Wrap in plastic wrap or waxed paper. Chill for several hours or overnight.

When ready to bake, preheat oven to 375 F. Line baking sheets with Silpat baking liners , parchment paper, or grease sheets generously.

Using a large sharp knife, cut chilled roll into 1/4-inch slices and place on cookie sheets. Bake for 14 minutes, or until edges are light brown. Cool completely. Dust cookies with confectioners' sugar, if desired.

Yield: about 4 dozen cookies Fruit and Nut Cream Swirl Cookies Photo © 2006 Peggy Trowbridge, licensed to About.com, Inc.