Chocolate Holiday Bears

Directions

1. 1
   Heat oven to 350F Beat butter, sugar, dry pudding mix, and egg in large bowl with mixer until blended.
2. 2
   Mix remaining ingredients.
3. 3
   Gradually add to pudding mixture, beating well after each addition.
4. 4
   Shape into ball.
5. 5
   Refrigerate 30 minutes.
6. 6
   Place dough between 2 sheets of parchment paper; roll to 1/4 inch thickness.
7. 7
   Cut into shapes with 4-inch bear-shaped cookie cutter.
8. 8
   Place, 2-inches apart on greased baking sheets.
9. 9
   Reroll scraps and use to cut additional cookies.
10. 10
    Bake 12-14 minutes or until slightly firm.
11. 11
    Let stand on baking sheets 3 minutes.
12. 12
    Remove to wire racks; cool completely.
13. 13
    Special extras: Decorate cookies with miniature marshmallows, small candies, nuts and/or sprinkles, using semi-sweet chocolate for the glue.