Italian Cinnamon Sticks

Servings: 4

3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup ground walnuts
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup butter, softened
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 egg, beaten

Combine first 3 ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.

Beat butter and cream cheese until creamy; gradually add flour, mixing until well blended. Shape dough into a ball; wrap in plastic wrap, and chill 30 minutes.

Divide dough in half; place one portion between 2 sheets of lightly floured wax paper, and roll into a 10-inch square (about 1/8 inch thick). Brush with egg, and sprinkle with half of sugar mixture. Cut into 5 x 1/2-inch strips; twist strips, and place on ungreased baking sheets. Repeat with remaining dough and sugar mixture. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden and crisp. Transfer to wire racks to cool.