YOU'RE A GOOD CATCH!

There is still time to bake a batch of these alluring cookies before Labor Day!

Simple patterns and food coloring transform my blackberry-flavored cookies into bright "fishing lures."  A plain sack and float makes a captivating carrier for the colorful treats if you wish to present these as a gift.

What a creative way to say "I'm hooked on you!"

FISHING LURE COOKIES

1 cup butter or margarine, softened
1/3 cup butter-flavored shortening
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1 teas[ppm vanilla xtract
1 cup blackberry jam
6 1/2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups water
       Red, green, yellow, purple, orange, blue, and black paste food coloring.

     Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  In a large bowl, cream first four ingredients until fluffy.  Add eggs and vanilla; beat until smooth.  Stir in jam.  In another large bowl, sift together flour and salt.  Add dry ingredients to creamed mixture; knead until a soft dough forms..

     Copy and paste fishing lure patterns (follows.)   On a lightly floured surface, use a floured rolling pin to roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness.  Place patterns on dough and use a sharp knife to cut out cookies.  Transfer to a greased baking sheet.  Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown.  Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. 

     Pour 1/2 cup water in each of 6 small bowls.  Add a small amount of red food coloring to 1 bowl; stir until dissolved.  Repeat for all colors except black.  To decorate cookies, use a small round paintbrush to lightly brush diluted food coloring onto cookies to resmble fishing lures.  Referring to the photo, use a small round paintbrush and undiluted black food coloring to paint eyes on cookies.  Allow to dry.  Store in an airtight container. 

Yield:  about 6 dozen cookies.