Finnish Christmas Cookies With Almonds

Cookies to give as gifts or to eat yourself.If you don't have a fluted pastry cutter you can use cookie cutters.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Yields: 36 cookies

Ingredients

• 2  cups butter, softened
• 1  cup sugar
• 4  cups all-purpose flour
• 1  egg, beaten
• 2⁄3 cup  finely chopped  almonds
•  colored crystal sugar (optional)

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in flour.
2. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
3. Roll out onto a well-floured surface to 1/4-in. thickness.
4. Brush lightly with egg. Sprinkle with almonds and sugar if desired.
5. Using a fluted pastry cutter or knife, cut into 2-in. x 1-in. strips.
6. Place 1 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
7. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10-12 minute or until lightly browned.
8. Cool on wire racks.