Festive Shortbread Logs

1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
4 teaspoons shortening
3/4 cup ground walnuts

• In a large bowl, cream butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. 
• Add vanilla. Gradually add flour and mix well.
• With lightly floured hands, shape tablespoonfuls into 2-in. logs. 
• Place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. 
• Bake at 350° for 9-11 minutes or until edges and bottom are lightly browned. 
• Cool for 2-3 minutes before removing to wire racks.
• In a microwave, melt chocolate chips and shortening; stir until smooth. 
• Drizzle chocolate over half of the cookies. 
• Dip one end of remaining cookies into chocolate; allow excess to drip off. 
• Sprinkle with walnuts. Place on waxed paper; let stand until set. 

  
Recipe: Taste of Home