Diane's Almond Tarts

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• 1/2 cup almond paste
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 12-cup muffin pan.
2. In a medium bowl, stir together 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 cup butter and salt until crumbly.
3. Stir in cold water a tablespoon at a time until mixture forms a ball.
4. Press 1 tablespoon of dough into each muffin cup.
5. In a small bowl, mix together almond paste, 1/4 cup sugar, egg, melted butter, and almond extract.
6. Spoon almond mixture into each muffin cup.
7. Sprinkle toasted almonds over the top.
8. Bake in preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Cool before removing from pan.

Interesting Facts

• Almond tarts are a classic dessert that have been around for centuries.
• Almonds are a great source of healthy fats and protein.
• The almonds used in almond tarts are typically toasted to bring out their flavor.
• Almond tarts can be served warm or cold.