Iraqi Cardamom Cookies (Hadgi Badah)

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Prepare baking sheets with a light coating of cooking spray, oil or butter. (Looks like parchment paper would also work well with these cookies.).

2. 2

   Sift together the flour, cardamom, salt, and baking powder.

3. 3

   Using an electric mixer, beat the sugar and eggs until light and creamy. Stir in the flour mixture, then the ground almonds.

4. 4

   Pinch off a small piece of dough and hand form into 1-inch balls, moistening your hands with rose water or orange blossom water, if desired. Place on the prepared baking sheets and flatten slightly. Press a whole almond into the center of each cookie.

5. 5

   Bake until lightly browned about 12 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool.

6. 6

   Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.