Egyptian El Menenas (Almond Paste Cookies)

Debbie R.'s Note:

This is from "Best of African Cooking". I haven't made it yet. A date variation is included below.

• Total Time: 50 mins
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins

Ingredients:

Yield: 1 batch

• ½ lb almond paste
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons orange flower water
• cinnamon
• 2⁄3; cup butter , melted
• 2 cups flour

Directions:

1. Add sugar to the almond paste; mix well. Add 1 teaspoons orange flower water and cinnamon to taste (at least 1/2 tsp). Blend well into a smooth paste.
2. In a bowl, combine melted butter with flour. Add the other teaspoons of orange flower water. Knead into a dough that holds together. Do not add any water unless absolutely necessary.
3. Form balls about 1.5 - 2 inches round. Make a depression in the center of each ball with your thumb. Fill hole with almond paste.
4. Place on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375 for 30 minutes or until nicely browned. Sprinkle with grandulated sugar.
5. VARIATION: A date filling can be substituted for the almond one. Chop 1/2 lb. pitted dates and combine into a paste with 4 T. soft butter.