Almond Paste

Directions

1. 1
   Add the whole blanched almonds to your KitchenAid(R) K400 Blender and blend on speed 4 for 30 seconds. Uncover the blender and scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula. Add the powdered sugar, blend on speed 3 for 30 seconds. Uncover and scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula. Increase speed to 5 and blend again for 15 seconds.
2. 2
   Remove the lid cap and add the almond extract and egg whites. Blend on speed 5 for 40 seconds, scraping down sides with a rubber spatula as needed. Reduce speed to 2 and blend for 10 seconds.
3. 3
   Use a rubber spatula to remove paste from blender. Form into a log and wrap tightly with plastic wrap before storing in the refrigerator. (You can also freeze the almond paste to extend the shelf life.)
4. 4
   CHEF'S NOTES: If you decide to blanch the almonds yourself, be sure to dehydrate them completely before using in this recipe.