time to start baking...Hamantaschen!

Cookie Dough Hamantaschen  - DAIRY OR PAREVE -  YIELD: 44 COOKIES

1              cup butter (or margarine)

2              cups sugar

3              large eggs, divided

2              teaspoons vanilla extract

3 1/2       tablespoons orange juice

1              teaspoon baking powder

1/2          teaspoon salt

4            cups flour

Flour for rolling

Prune, poppy seed, apricot, raspberry, cherry, or Double Chocolate Filling

Directions

1.    Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease cookie sheets.

2.    Cream butter (margarine) and sugar at medium speed. Beat in 2 eggs, vanilla and juice.

3.    Mix baking powder and salt with flour, gradually add to creamed mixture for sticky dough.

4.    Divide dough into 4 balls and cover with plastic wrap. Chill 4 hours.

5.    Roll each ball on lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut 3-inch circles.

6.    Beat remaining egg with 1 teaspoon water. Brush rim of circle with egg wash. Place 1 teaspoon of filling in center. Pinch edges to form triangle, leaving center slightly open.

7.    Place on sheets and bake 15 to 18 minutes until lightly browned. Freezes well.