Step 1

Preheat oven to 350F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine flour, sugar, almond meal, baking powder, and salt. Add 2 eggs, melted butter, and almond extract. Beat on low speed until combined and dough starts to form. (mixture will still be somewhat crumbly.) Add almonds and mix just until combined.

Step 3

Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead a few times to form a cohesive dough; divide in half. Shape each half into a 1-inch-thick (5x3-inch) rectangle and place on prepared pan at least 4 inches apart. Brush dough with beaten egg or cream. Sprinkle with sugar, if desired.

Step 4

Bake until dough is cracked and outside is lightly brown, about 30 minutes. Transfer loaves to a wire rack and let cool for 20 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 325F.

Step 5

Using a serrated knife, cut each piece into 1-inch-wide slices. Place slices back on the baking sheet cut-side down. Bake for another 20 minutes, or until lightly browned and cookies appear totally dry. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 weeks.