Speculaas (Dutch Windmill Cookies)

My grandpa taught me how to make these authentic Dutch windmill cookies, using his wood cookie forms that have passed through the generations. Today, they can be made into any shape you like, using cookie cutters.

• Ready In: 40 mins
• Serves: 24-36

Ingredients

• 1  cup butter or 1  cup margarine
• 2 3⁄4 cups flour
• 1 1⁄2 cups  packed brown sugar
• 1  egg
• 1  teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1⁄2 cup  finley chopped  blanched almond, divided

Directions

1. In a bowl, beat the butter 30 seconds or until softened.
2. Combine the remaining ingredients, except for the almonds, in a small bowl.
3. Add half of this mixture into the butter. Stir until mixed.
4. Add the remaining flour mixture and 1/3 cup almonds and stir until mixed.
5. Divide dough in half.
6. On lightly floured surface roll one portion ot the dough to 1/8" thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes, place on greased cookie sheet and decorate with remaining almonds (if desired).
8. Repeat with second half of dough.
9. Bake at 350 degrees 8-10 minutes, or until browned.
10. Cool on cookie sheet one minute.
11. Remove and allow to cool.