Finnish Christmas Cookies With Almonds

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

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)

Steps:

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.