Preparation

1 Spread almonds onto an ungreased baking pan.

2  Place in a 350ºF oven and bake about 7 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant; stir once or twice to ensure even browning.

3  Place slivered almonds in a food processor and process until finely ground.

4  Set aside. Stir together flour, cardamom and salt in a small bowl. Set aside.

5 Place the butter in a medium bowl and beat at medium speed until fluffy. Gradually beat in sugar.

6 Beat in the egg yolk, orange zest and almond extract.

7 Add flour mixture and ground almonds and beat at low speed just until blended. Cover and chill.

8  Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

9 Shape tablespoonfuls of dough into balls; place 1-inch apart on prepared baking sheets.

10 Press a whole natural almond in the center of each ball. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the underside is lightly browned. Transfer to wire racks to cool.

Source: Almond Board of California