1 8-ounce can almond paste
1/4 cup sugar
1 egg white large
1 teaspoon anise extract
2 to 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 egg white slightly beaten
1/3 cup almonds chopped slivered
Sugar (optional)
Preheat oven to 350°. Grease and flour a baking sheet. Place almond paste in a small saucepan and break into small pieces. Add 1/4 cup sugar and 1 large egg white. Cook and stir over low heat until smooth. Remove from heat. Stir in anise extract. Cool slightly.
Transfer almond mixture to a cutting board; knead in powdered sugar for 1 to 2 minutes or until dough is easy to handle. Divide dough into twelve balls, about 1 1/2 inches each. Form each ball into a 4-inch crescent. Place 1 1/2 inches apart on baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg white and sprinkle with chopped almonds and sugar if desired.
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until lightly browned. Gently transfer to wire racks; cool. Store in an airtight container for one day to mellow before serving.