Chocolate and Orange Pinwheel Cookies

1. 1

   FOR THE BASE: In a mixing bowl, cream the butter, cream cheese & sugar, then add the egg, orange zest & vanilla, mixing well.

2. 2

   In another bowl, whisk together the flour & salt, then add this to the creamed mixture & mix well.

3. 3

   Cover & chill for 4 hours or until firm.

4. 4

   FOR THE FILLING: Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine all the filling ingredients, then cook & stir over low heat until smooth.

5. 5

   Set aside to cool.

6. 6

   Once the base dough has chilled AND the filling has cooled, on a floured surface, divide the dough in half; roll each half into a 12-inch by 10-inch rectangle.

7. 7

   Spread each rectangle with half of the cooled filling, then carefully roll up into a tight jelly roll & wrap each roll in waxed paper.

8. 8

   Chill overnight.

9. 9

   The next day, preheat the oven to 375 degrees F & set out several baking sheets.

10. 10

    Remove waxed paper from the rolls & cut the rolls into 1/4-inch thick slices, placing the slices on an ungreased baking sheet.

11. 11

    Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned, then remove the cookies to wire racks to cool.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.