Chewy Almond Cookies (Macaroons)

• slivered almonds↗3 3⁄4 cups
• egg whites↗2

  large

• sugar↗1⁄2 cup
• ground cardamom↗1⁄4 teaspoon
• ground cinnamon↗1⁄4 teaspoon
• slivered almonds↗24

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Process almonds in a food processor 9 minutes or until a paste forms, stopping to scrape down sides.

2. 2

   Beat egg whites at medium speed with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.

3. 3

   Combine almond paste, sugar, cardamom and cinnamon in a bowl, mixing with hands until blended.

4. 4

   Add egg whites; knead by hand until smooth and doughlike consistency.

5. 5

   Wet fingers with water, and shape dough into 1-inch balls (about 1 tablespoon dough for each cookie).

6. 6

   Slightly flatten with thumb.

7. 7

   Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

8. 8

   Top each with almond sliver pressed in lightly.

9. 9

   Bake on middle rack of oven at 325° for 15-20 minutes or until bottoms are lightly browned.

10. 10

    Remove cookies immediately to wire racks; cool.