Noel Wreaths

1 large container (16 ounces) candied red cherries (see note)2 small containers (4 ounces each) candied green cherries1 cup butter 1/2 cup sugar1 egg1 teaspoon vanilla extract2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, siftedFilling1 1/2 cups finely chopped walnuts1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/3 cup light corn syrupHeat oven to 350 degrees.Slice red cherries into tiny pieces for holly berries. Slice green cherries into thin holly leaves. Set aside.In a large bowl, cream butter, adding sugar gradually; mixing until well combined. Beat in egg and vanilla; blend in flour. Dough should be soft. Remove 1/3 cup dough for walnut filling. Knead remaining dough with hands until pliable. With star-shaped cookie press form 3-inch strips onto ungreased cookie sheets. Join ends to make wreaths.For the filling: Combine reserved cookie dough, walnuts, vanilla and corn syrup. Place 1 teaspoon filling in center of each wreath. Decorate with bits of red and green cherries. Bake 15 minutes or until delicately browned.Makes 7 dozen.Cook's note: You will have leftover cherries.Nutrition values per serving: 63 calories, 4 g fat (1 g saturated), 7 g carbohydrates,, 1 g fiber, 1 g protein, 8 mg cholesterol, 17 mg sodium.