1 1/2 C. sliced blanched almonds

1 C. unsalted butter, softened

1/2 C. sugar

1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. almond extract

2 C. all-purpose soft wheat flour

Pinch of salt

Sifted powdered sugar

 

Process almonds in a food processor until ground. Beat butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until fluffy; gradually add sugar, beating well. Add almonds and extracts; beat at low speed until blended. Combine flour and salt; gradually add to butter mixture, beating at low speed just until blended after each addition. Divide dough in half; wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and chill at least 1 hour. Roll level tsp.fuls of dough into ropes; place ropes 1 inch apart on lightly greased baking sheets. Bring ends of each rope toward center to form crescents. (Keep remaining dough chilled and ready for shaping.) Bake at 300° for 17 minutes; cool on baking sheets 2 minutes. Gently roll in powdered sugar, and cool completely on wire racks.