Jello Cookie Gems

I saw this in the latest issue of Food and Family from Kraft and wanted to set it aside for my Christmas baking extravaganza.  The recipe highlights raspberry jello but I am sure you can use other flavors/colors.

1 8oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
3/4 C. butter, softened
1C. granulated sugar
1 3oz. pkg raspberry flavored jello
2 1/4 C. flour
2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. baking soda
2 tbsp. powdered sugar

Beat the first 4 ingredients in a large bowl with a mixer until blended.  Mix flour, dry gelatin mix and baking soda; gradually add to cream cheese mixture, mixing well after each addition.  Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Heat oven to 375 degrees.  Roll dough into 60 1-inch balls.  Place, 2 inches apart, an baking sheets sprayed with cooking spray.

Bake 9-11 minutes or until edges are slightly browned.  Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes.  Remove to wire racks and cool completely.

Sprinkle with powdered sugar just before serving.