Neapolitan Cookies

Directions

1. 1
   In a small mixing bowl, stir together flour, baking powder and salt.
2. 2
   Set the mixture aside.
3. 3
   In a medium mixing bowl, beat margarine or butter with an electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds.
4. 4
   Add sugar and beat until fluffy.
5. 5
   Add egg and vanilla; beat just until combined.
6. 6
   Line a 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan with waxed paper to hang over the sides of the pan.
7. 7
   Set aside.
8. 8
   Divide dough into 3 portions.
9. 9
   To one portion, stir in almond extract and red food coloring.
10. 10
    Pat into pan.
11. 11
    Next layer, stir in chopped nuts; pat evenly over pink dough.
12. 12
    To remaining dough, stir in melted chocolate.
13. 13
    Pat evenly over dough.
14. 14
    Chill 4 hours.
15. 15
    Lift the waxed paper and remove dough from pan.
16. 16
    Cut down center lengthwise, then slice each half 1/8 to 1/4-inch thick.
17. 17
    Bake at 350°for 12 minutes 1-inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet.
18. 18
    Transfer to a wire rack to cool.
19. 19
    Makes 72 to 84 cookies.