Almond Heart-Shaped Biscuits

Method

• step 1

  For the biscuits: heat the oven to 190C,375F, gas 5. Line a baking tray with non-stick baking paper.

• step 2

  Cream the butter and sugar together in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.

• step 3

  Beat in the egg and almond extract, a little at a time, until well combined. Stir in the flour and mix to a dough.

• step 4

  Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to 1 cm / 1/2\" thick. Using heart shaped cookie cutters, cut shapes out of the dough and carefully place onto the baking tray.

• step 5

  Bake the biscuits for 8-12 minutes, until pale golden. Leave on the baking tray for 5 minutes to firm up, then place on a wire rack to cool.

• step 6

  For the icing: sift the icing sugar into a large bowl and stir in water as directed on the

• step 7

  packet to create a smooth mixture. Stir in the food colouring.

• step 8

  Carefully spread the icing on the biscuits and place a sugar flower on each biscuit before the icing sets.