Instructions: EQUIPMENT: Measuring cup, measuring spoons, 2 baking sheets, food processor with metal blade, electric mixer with balloon whip, rubber spatula, parchment paper, pastry bag, double boiler, film wrap, whisk, 1 1/2-qt saucepan, small stainless steel bowl, medium star tip

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Lightly toast the almonds on a baking sheet in the preheated oven for 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool to room temperature. Reduce the oven temperature to 225 degrees. In the bowl of a food processor fitted with a metal blade, coarsely process the toasted almonds with 2 tablespoons of sugar into pieces 1/8 inch in size.

Set aside until needed.

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Create a meringue by whisking the egg whites on medium speed in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a balloon whip. Whisk until frothy, about 1 minute. Add the cream of tartar and salt, increase speed to high, and whisk until the egg whites begin to stiffen, 1 to 1 1/2 minutes. While continuing to whisk on high speed, gradually add 1/2 cup granulated sugar. The egg whites should form peaks that are stiff, but not dry, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add almond extract and whisk on high for an additional 30 seconds. Remove the bowl from the mixer and use a rubber spatula to fold in the chopped almonds and cornstarch.

Directions Continued )))

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