The Twelve Days of Christmas at our House

Day 5-Almond Caramel Swirl Cookies

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon maple flavouring
• 2-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• FILLING:
• 30 caramels
• 2 packages (3 ounces each) cream cheese, softened

Directions

• In a large bowl, cream the butter, cream cheese and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolk and maple flavouring. Gradually add flour and mix well. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until easy to handle.
• In a microwave-safe bowl, melt caramels; stir until smooth. Stir in cream cheese until blended; set aside. Divide dough in half. Roll each portion between waxed paper to 1/4-in. thickness. Spread caramel mixture over dough to within 1/2 in. of edges.
• Roll up tightly jelly-roll style, starting with a long side. Wrap rolls in plastic wrap; refrigerate for 4 hours or until firm.
• Unwrap and cut into 1/4-in. slices. Place 1 in. apart on greased baking sheets. Bake at 350° for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool.