Sugared Almond Sticks

2/3 cup unblanched almonds, ground
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 cup sifted all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter
1 unbeaten egg yolk
1/4 teaspoon almond extract

Heat oven to 350 degrees F.

Mix 2 tablespoons of ground almonds with 2 tablespoons sugar; reserve.

Combine remaining ground almonds with flour, salt and sugar. Cut in butter until particles are fine. Add unbeaten egg yolk and almond extract; mix well to form a dough. Divide into 2 portions. Roll each portion with floured hands on a lightly floured surface to a strip 12 inches long. Place six strips side by side. Brush tops generously with slightly beaten egg white; sprinkle with reserved almond sugar mixture. Cut across all six strips at one time to make 1 1/2 inch pieces. Separate cut pieces of each strip and place on ungreased baking sheet.

Bake for 14 to 18 minutes until light golden brown.

Makes 4 dozen cookies.