Snapper Cookies

These crisp little turtle cookies are really quite playful. But don't worry, they won't snap at you.

Recipe Ingredients:

3/4 cup butter
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups small pecan halves
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate pieces
2 teaspoons vegetable shortening (do not use butter, margarine, spread or oil)

Cooking Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl beat the butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed about 30 seconds or until softened. Add the brown sugar and beat until fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla. Beat until thoroughly combined, scraping the sides of the bowl occasionally. Then beat in the flour until well mixed.
2. Shape the dough into 3/4-inch balls. Place about 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Tuck 3 or 4 small pecan halves under each ball. Slightly flatten balls.
3. Bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 9 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned on the bottoms. Remove cookies and cool on wire racks.
4. In a small heavy saucepan melt the chocolate pieces and shortening over low heat, stirring occasionally. Using a knife, swirl chocolate on the tops of the cookies.

Makes 3 1/2 dozen cookies.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/42 of recipe): calories: 106, total fat: 8g, saturated fat: 1g, cholesterol: 5mg, sodium: 41mg, carbohydrate: 9g, protein: 1g

Recipe provided by Better Homes and Gardens - BHG.com a member of the Home and Family Network for the best of cooking, gardening, decorating and more. © 2003 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved.