Rose'S Crescents (Holiday Shortbread Cookies)

1. 1

   Sift the flour and salt together and set aside.

2. 2

   Chop the almonds in a food processor or with a hand chopper until finely chopped.

3. 3

   In a large bowl (I use a KitchenAid standing mixer), combine butter, margarine, sugar and almonds. Beat at medium speed until light and fluffy. It may require stopping the mixer and scrapping the sides.

4. 4

   Gradually add the flour mixture and beat until well mixed. You'll likely have to scrap the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure that all the ingredients are combined. The result will be a fairly sticky dough.

5. 5

   Place the dough on wax paper and shape into a rectangle (4 x 6 x 1) and then wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for a minimum of two hours or overnight.

6. 6

   Preheat the oven to 325. Cut the dough into eight sections. Working with two sections at a time (keep the rest of the dough refrigerated), pinch off small balls of dough (bigger than a marble but smaller than a golf ball). On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rope about the size and length of your pinkie. Shape the ropes into crescent (half-moon) shapes.

7. 7

   Place on ungreased cookied sheets and bake for 10-13 minutes until set. The edges should be golden brown.

8. 8

   Cool on the cookie sheet for 10 minute. Remove promptly and roll in topping mixture.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.