Danish Holiday Pastry

Directions

1. 1
   Heat oven to 350°.
2. 2
   Measure first cup of flour into bowl.
3. 3
   Cut in 1/2 cup butter.
4. 4
   Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons water and mix with fork.
5. 5
   Round into ball and divide in half.
6. 6
   Pat dough with hands into 2 long strips 12 x 3 inches.
7. 7
   Strips should be 3 inches apart on ungreased baking sheet.
8. 8
   Mix the second amount of butter (1/2 cup) and water in saucepan.
9. 9
   Bring to a rolling boil.
10. 10
    Add almond flavoring and remove from heat.
11. 11
    Stir in flour immediately to keep it from lumping.
12. 12
    When smooth and thick, add 1 egg at at time, beating until smooth.
13. 13
    Divide in half and spread 1/2 evenly over each piece of pastry.
14. 14
    Bake about 50 minutes until topping is nicely browned.
15. 15
    Frost with powdered sugar icing and decorate with slivered almonds and candied cherries.