Italian Almond Macaroons

1/2 lb. blanched almonds
4 drops bitter almond oil
3/4 cup sugar
2 egg whites
1 Tablespoon confectioners sugar

Finely grind blanched almonds in batches using hand grinder or food processor.
combine almonds with almond oil , sugar and lightly beaten egg whites. Knead mixture into firm dough.
With moistened hands , form dough into balls about 1 Inch in diameter. You should have about 45 balls.

Place balls at least 1 inch apart on baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Use second baking sheet if needed.
Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Place baking sheet on bottom rack and bake for about 55 to 60 minutes.
Transfer baked cookies to wire rack. Using fine sieve, dust cookies with confectioners sugar while warm.

Patricia