Recipe: Fudge-Filled Dessert Strips (cookies using sweetened condensed milk)

FUDGE-FILLED DESSERT STRIPS

FOR THE DOUGH:
1 cup butter, softened
1 pkg. (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
2 cups flour
FOR THE CHOCOLATE FILLING:
2 cups (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
2 cups chopped walnuts
Confectioners' sugar (optional, for dusting tops)

TO PREPARE THE DOUGH:
In a large bowl, cream the butter and cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually add the flour. Mix well. Turn onto a lightly floured surface. Knead until smooth, about 3 minutes. Divide the dough into fourths. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours or until easy to handle.

WHEN READY TO BAKE:
In a microwave, melt the chocolate chips and the milk. Stir until smooth. Stir in the walnuts. Cool to room temperature.

Roll the dough out on an ungreased baking sheet to an (11 x 6 1/2-inch) rectangle. Spread 3/4 cup of the chocolate filling down the center of each rectangle. Fold the long sides to the center. Press to seal all the edges. Turn over so the seam sides are down.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 27-32 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.

When cool, cut into 1/2-inch slices. Dust with confectioners' sugar, if desired.

Makes 3 dozen
Source: Kimberly Santoro in Taste of Home magazine