Dim Sum Almond Cookies

Dim sum, the practice of eating small portions of food served in steamer baskets or small plates, came about from an older tradition called “yum cha” (tea tasting). These cookies make a perfect addition to any dim sum brunch.

Yields 30-35 cookies

Ingredients

2 cups flour

1 ⁄2 teaspoon baking powder

1 ⁄2 teaspoon baking soda

1 ⁄2 cup margarine or butter, as preferred

1 ⁄2 cup shortening

3 ⁄4 cup white sugar

2 eggs

2 teaspoons almond extract

1 ⁄4 pound whole, blanched almonds (1 for each cookie)

1 egg, lightly beaten

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.

2. In a large bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter or margarine, shortening, and sugar. Add the eggs and almond extract and beat until well blended. Add to the flour mixture, stirring.

3. Knead the dough into a roll or log. If you find 1 long roll too difficult to work with, split the dough into 2 equal pieces.

4. Cut the dough into 30–35 pieces. (If desired, lightly score the dough before cutting to get an idea of the correct size.) Roll each piece into a ball and place on a lightly greased cookie tray, approximately 2 inches apart. Place an almond in the center of each cookie and press down lightly.

hancheng

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