Dutch Letters

Ingredients

For the Filling
8 oz almond paste
1 c sugar
1 egg
1/2 tsp lemon extract

For the Dough
4 c flour
1 tsp salt
2 c cold butter
1 c ice water

For Egg Wash
1 egg white
2 tsp water

Directions

Preheat oven to 350

For the Filling
In a bowl, beat all filling ingredients until smooth. Divide into four portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a 12 in x 1/2 in rope; set aside.

For the Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt; cut in butter until crumbly. Gradually add water, tossing with a fork until dough forms a ball. Divide into four portions.

Assembly and Baking

On a lightly floured surface, roll out each dough portion into 14 in x 6 in rectangles. Place one almond paste rope in the center of each rectangle. Moisten the long edges of dough; fold overfilling. Press seam to seal; tuck in ends. Transfer seam side down to a greased baking sheets; form each rope into an "S" shape, or other desired shape. Whisk egg wash ingredients and brush over dough. Using a fork, prick tops at 1 in intervals to vent. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.