BUTTERY ALMOND SHORTBREAD BARS

2/3 cup butter flavored shortening
2/3 cup sugar
1 egg, separated
2 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp almond extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp water
1/2 cup (or more)  finely chopped almonds

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9 x 13 x 2-inch pan; set aside.

In a medium mixing bowl, cream together the shortening, sugar, egg yolk, milk, and almond extract. Add the flour to the mixture and blend together. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Add the water to the egg white in a small mixing bowl. Beat the mixture until until foamy. Brush the egg white mixture over the surface of the dough. Sprinkle with the almonds, pressing them down gently with your fingertips. Bake at 350 degrees for 18 to 20 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool for 10 minutes before cutting into bars.

Note: File Photo