Red and green maraschino cherries add a jolly finish to each light and creamy morsel. A great melt-in-the-mouth treat for Christmas.

Ingredients: (Makes 12 pieces)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ²⁄3 cup packed brown sugar
• ²⁄3 cup cold butter
• 1 cup chopped walnuts

For the filling:

• 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• ¼ cup 2% milk
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Sliced red and green maraschino cherries, optional

Method:

In a large bowl, combine flour and brown sugar, then cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the walnuts. Reserve 1 cup. Press the remaining crumbs onto the bottom of an ungreased 13 x 9 inch baking pan. Bake at 175ºC/350ºF for 12 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, beat on low speed just until combined. Stir in the milk, lemon juice and vanilla. Pour filling over crust. Sprinkle with reserved crumbs.

Bake for 25-30 minutes longer or until edges are lightly browned and filling is almost set. Cool in pan on a wire rack. Cut into squares. Garnish with cherries if desired. Store in refrigerator.