From CALIFORNIA ALMONDS

A whole-wheat and almond butter version of the Chinese cookie classic. These treats are an ideal partner-in-cookie-crime to a cold glass of milk or a cup of afternoon tea.

INGREDIENTS
Cooking spray
3/4 cup all purpose flour
1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour, or regular whole wheat flour
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup smooth, unsalted almond butter
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
36 raw whole almonds (a heaping 1/4 cup)

DIRECTIONS
1.Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

2.Spray two baking sheets with cooking spray.

3.In a large bowl whisk together the flours, salt, and baking soda.

4.In another large bowl beat together the butter, almond butter and sugars until fluffy. Add the vanilla and egg and beat until well combined. Gradually stir in the flour mixture, bending well.

5.Shape the dough into 3/4 inch balls, and place on the baking sheets.

6.Place an almond in center of each cookie and press down lightly. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until lightly browned.

7.Cool on a wire rack.

Find this recipe and more holiday treats at ALMONDS.COM