Raspberry Gems

1 1/2 c All purpose flour

1 c Margarine or butter,

-softened 1/2 c Dairy sour cream

1/3 c Raspberry spreadable fruit

3 tb Sugar

2/3 c Semisweet chocolate pieces

1 tb Shortening

1/4 c Finely chopped almonds

Stir together flour, margarine or butter, and sour cream in a large mixing bowl, till thoroughly combined. Divide dough in half. Cover; chill for 3 hours. Roll each half of dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Using a 1-3/4 to 2 inch round cookie cutter cut dough. Spread about 1/4 tsp. raspberry fruit on top of half of the cookies. Top with remaining cookies. Stir together sugar and 1 Tbsp. water. Brush over cookies. Place cookies on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake in a 350 oven for 15 to 20 minutes or till done. Remove cookies and cool on a wire rack. Meanwhile, in a small heavy saucepan melt chocolate pieces and shortening over low heat till melted, stirring constantly. Dip one side of each of the cookies into melted chocolate. Place on waxed paper; sprinkle with almonds. Cool until set. Makes about 72. From: Better Homes and Gardens Christmas Cookies 1992 Shared By: Pat Stockett