Recipe: Black Walnut Pinwheels

BLACK WALNUT PINWHEELS
From: Better Homes and Gardens Magazine: Christmas Cookies 1998

1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon black walnut flavoring (optional)
1 cup finely ground black walnuts

Beat shortening in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add the 1/2 cup brown sugar, baking soda, and salt; beat till combined.
Beat in egg.
Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer.
Stir in any remaining flour with a wooden spoon.
Cover and chill for 1 to 2 hours or till firm enough to handle.
Meanwhile, combine melted butter or margarine, the 2/3 cup brown sugar, walnut flavoring, if desired, and walnuts.
Roll dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch square.
Spread walnut mixture evenly over dough; roll up jelly roll style.
Wrap in clear plastic wrap and chill at least 3 hours.
Cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices.
Place slices 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.
Bake in a 375 degrees F oven for 7 to 9 minutes or till edges are lightly browned.
Cool on baking sheet for 1 minute.
Transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Makes about 48.