Chocolate Shortbread Trees

1. 1

   In a large bowl, beat butter and confectioners' sugar until blended. Beat in vanilla. In another bowl, whisk flour and cocoa; gradually beat into creamed mixture.

2. 2

   Divide dough in half. Shape each into a disk; wrap in plastic. Refrigerate 1 hour or until firm enough to roll.

3. 3

   Preheat oven to 350u00b0. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion of dough to 1/4-in. thickness. Cut with a floured 3-1/4-in. tree-shaped cookie cutter. Place 1 in. apart on greased

4. 4

   . If desired, sprinkle with nonpareils.

5. 5

   Bake 8-10 minutes or until set. Cool on pans 5 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.

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