Almond Meringue Shortbread

Almond Meringue Shortbread cookies are light  and crisp, with a flavor that compliments any occasion, whether it’s a tea party or a bridal shower.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 3/4 cup butter or margarine
• 1/4 cup jam or jelly
• 2 egg whites
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 tsp. cinnamon
• 1/2 cup blanched almond, slivered

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 400.
2. In a large bowl, measure out flour.
3. Make a well in center of flour and add egg yolks, 1/2 cup sugar, salt, and butter.
4. Work ingredients together with hands until well blended.
5. Press dough into well greased pan (usually square, 9×9″).
6. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
7. Allow to cool slightly.
8. Spread jam or jelly over top of shortbread.
9. In a small bowl, beat egg whites until foamy.
10. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon.
11. Continue to beat egg white mixture until stiff peaks form.
12. Spread meringue over jam.
13. Sprinkle almonds over top.
14. Bake for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until meringue is brown.
15. Cut- into square about 1 1/2″ if using square pan, or pie shapes if using round pan.

Makes approximately 3 dozen squares