Toasted Almond Snowballs

Preparation

1. Step 1

   In a medium skillet over medium heat, toast the almond flour, stirring constantly, until golden brown and fragrant, 6 to 8 minutes. Immediately pour flour into a small bowl to cool. Watch carefully: Once the flour begins to toast, it will happen very quickly.

2. Step 2

   Using an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a handheld electric mixer, beat butter and 1 cup confectioners’ sugar on low speed until fluffy, 1 to 2 minutes. Beat in egg yolk, brandy and almond extract until well combined.

3. Step 3

   Reduce speed to low and gradually add all-purpose flour, salt and toasted almond flour until just incorporated.

4. Step 4

   Scrape the dough into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

5. Step 5

   When ready to bake, heat oven to 350 degrees and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

6. Step 6

   Using your hands, roll dough into 1-inch balls and place balls 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 12 to 18 minutes, until cookies begin to brown at edges. Rotate cookie sheets halfway through for even baking.

7. Step 7

   Place ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar into a sieve. As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, sift a thick layer of confectioners’ sugar over the tops. Once cookies are cool, put remaining ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar (plus any sugar in the sieve) into a shallow bowl and toss cookies again in confectioners’ sugar.