Egg Tarts with Almonds

Directions

1. 1
   To make Dough: Sift together flour and salt in large bowl.
2. 2
   Cut shortening into flour using two knives or pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse meal.
3. 3
   Whisk together egg and sugar in separate bowl.
4. 4
   Stir into flour mixture.
5. 5
   Add 4 to 5 Tbs.
6. 6
   cold water, just enough to make dough stick together.
7. 7
   Shape dough into ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill 1 hour, or overnight.
8. 8
   Preheat oven to 325F.
9. 9
   Spray 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray.
10. 10
    To make Filling: Place milk, sugar, eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla and almond extracts in blender, and blend until smooth.
11. 11
    Strain through fine mesh strainer into small pitcher or 4-cup measuring cup.
12. 12
    Roll out chilled Dough to 1/8-inch thickness on well-floured work surface.
13. 13
    Cut out 12 rounds with 3-inch round cookie cutter.
14. 14
    Press Dough rounds into prepared muffin pan.
15. 15
    Fill crusts three-quarters full with Filling.
16. 16
    Bake 15 minutes.
17. 17
    Top each tart with 1 almond, and bake 15 to 20 minutes more, or until custard is set.
18. 18
    Cool; then unmold tarts using knife tip to loosen.