Basler Brunsli

1 3/4 c Sugar

3 1/2 c Whole unblanched almonds

7 oz Semisweet chocolate

2 ts Cinnamon

1/2 ts Ground clove

4 lg Egg whites

1 tb Kirsch (optional)

COMBINE THE SUGAR and almonds in the food processor and pulse to grind finely. Be careful that the mixture does not become warm. Cut the chocolate finely and add to the processor. Pulse to grind the chocolate finely and mix with the almonds and sugar. Add the remaining ingredients and pulse to mix rapidly. Strew the surface with sugar and press the paste out about 3/8-inch thick. Roll over with a grooved rolling pin. Cut the Brunsli in

hearts, stars and clover leaf shapes and place on paper-lined pans. Allow to dry several hours, uncovered, at room temperature. Preheat oven to 300F. Bake about 10 minutes. Do not overbake or they will be very hard.