Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 125g butter, softened
• 65g icing sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 200g plain flour
• 25g cornflour
• 140g almonds, toasted and chopped

For the Chocolate Coating:

• 200g melted chocolate
• 80g shortening

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Almonds: Toast the almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until they are lightly browned and fragrant. Allow them to cool, then chop them coarsely.

3. Creaming the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and icing sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well until combined.

5. Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the plain flour and cornflour. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

6. Fold in Toasted Almonds: Gently fold in the toasted and chopped almonds into the cookie dough.

7. Shape the Cookies: Take portions of the dough and roll them into small balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.

8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.

9. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Prepare Chocolate Coating: In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate and shortening together. You can do this over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring at 30-second intervals until smooth.

11. Dip Cookies in Chocolate: Once the cookies are completely cooled, dip each cookie into the melted chocolate mixture, ensuring they are coated evenly. You can use a fork to help with the dipping process.

12. Set on Parchment Paper: Place the chocolate-coated cookies on parchment paper to allow the chocolate to set.

13. Allow Chocolate to Harden: Let the chocolate coating harden at room temperature or, if you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the refrigerator for faster setting.

14. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chocolate is fully set, your Chocolate Almond Cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container.

These cookies combine the rich flavors of chocolate and toasted almonds, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy!