Chinese Almond Cookies

Chinese Almond Cookies

Makes approximately 3 dozen.

These cookies originated because of my dear father-in-law, The Mr.'s dad! He was always buying those "Chinese Cookies" from the grocery store and raving about them. That's when I set out on a mission to create a homemade version that he would love even more! After researching multiple recipes, I came up with this one. Now, whenever I bring him a batch, he hoards them from everyone else! Which, although unfortunate for everyone else, is the best compliment to me! :)

1-1/2 c. shortening
1-1/2 c. sugar
1 egg
1 T. pure almond extract
3-1/2 c. flour
1-1/4 t. baking soda
3/4 t. salt
can of chocolate frosting

In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar. Add egg and almond extract and beat. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking soda. Slowly add flour mixture to the mixing bowl, combining well.

Separate dough into three sections, rolling each section into a log (about 2" in diameter). Do your best to keep the ends from coning out (you'll avoid wasting dough later on when slicing). Wrap dough logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Slice dough (I typically slice every 1/2" or slightly larger, but slice at whatever thickness you prefer), and place on cookie sheet. Bake for 10 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.

Mmmm... cookies...

But wait! They're not complete without the chocolate drizzle! Remember when we made Summer Citrus Muffins and used the technique of placing the wire rack over the sink? Welp, we're doing it again, to save time spent on clean-up!

Microwave can of chocolate (lid removed) for 30 seconds. Stir with a spoon and continuing nuking at 10 second intervals until frosting is melted and drizzly. Yes, drizzly. Holding the spoon straight up and down, dunk into chocolate frosting and drizzle cookies.

A Note From the Little Lady: You can also freeze the logs of dough. Just refrigerate until firm and then place in a freezer bag, for extra freezer-burn protection. Thaw in refrigerator for a few hours before slicing.