Chinese Almond Cookies

Chinese Almond Cookies
Yield: about 5 dozen

* 1 cup butter, softened
* 1 cup sugar
* 1 egg
* 1 teaspoon almond extract
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 cup sliced almonds
* 1 egg white
* 1/2 teaspoon water

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar. Beat in egg and extract. Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture. Roll into 1-in. balls. Place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Flatten with a fork. Sprinkle with almonds. In a small bowl, beat egg white and water. Brush over cookies. Bake at 325° for 14-16 minutes or until edges and bottoms are lightly browned. Cool for 2 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks.