1/2 c. soft butter
3/4 c. sifted confectioners' sugar
1 tbsp. vanilla
Food coloring, if desired

Mix first 3 ingredients thoroughly. Mix in with hand: 1/8 tsp. salt

If dough is dry, add 1 to 2 tablespoon cream. Wrap level tablespoon dough around filling (a candied or well drained maraschino cherry, pitted date, gumdrop, or 1/2 teaspoon unsweetened chocolate melted and 1/2 cup shredded coconut). Place 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheet. Bake until set but not brown. Dip tops of warm cookies in Icing. Bake 12 to 15 minutes in a 350 degree oven. Approximately 2 dozen cookies.

ICING:

1 c. sifted confectioners' sugar
2 tbsp. cream
1 tsp. vanilla or flavoring of your choice
Food coloring, if desired.