2 1/2 c. flour
3/4 c. sugar
4 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cardamom (optional)
1/2 c. firm butter
1 c. creamed cottage cheese
1 egg
2 tbsp. light rum
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. chopped pecans
1/4 c. mixed candied fruits
1/4 c. raisins
2 tbsp. melted, divided butter
2 tbsp. sugar and 1/4 tsp. vanilla, blended well

In large bowl combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and cardamon. Cut in firm butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs; set aside. In small bowl beat cottage cheese, egg, rum and vanilla until well blended. Stir in pecans, fruits and raisins. Add to flour mixture and mix until moistened. Form into ball. On lightly floured surface knead slightly, about 10 inch. Roll to 10 x 8 inch oval. Lightly crease dough just of center parallel to 10 inch side. Brush dough lightly with melted butter. Fold smaller section over larger on crease. Place on baking sheet lined with brown paper. Bake in preheated 325 degree oven about 50 minutes or until golden brown. Brush top lightly with remaining melted butter; sprinkle with sugar-vanilla mixture. Cool on rack. Store airtight at room temperature. makes 1 loaf. 20 slices.

Per slice: 222 cal, 4g pro, 32 g car, 9 g fat, 32 mg chol with butter, 18 mg chol with butter. Use pecan halves, candied cherry halves to decorate.