NEAPOLITAN COOKIES

Neapolitan Cookies

1 cup butter (no substitutes), softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
6 drops red liquid food coloring
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 (1 ounce) square unsweetened baking chocolate, melted

Line a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with wax paper; set aside.

In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.

Combine flour, baking powder and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Divide the dough into thirds. Add almond extract and food coloring to one portion; spread evenly into prepared pan.

Add nuts to second portion; spread evenly over first layer.

Add melted chocolate to third portion; spread over second layer. Cover with wax paper; refrigerate overnight.

Unwrap; cut loaf in half lengthwise. Cut each portion into 1/8-inch slices. Place 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are firm. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Yields 12 dozen.