1. Heat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
2. Line two baking trays with baking paper.
3. In a big bowl, beat the butter and sugar until creamy.
4. Add the egg and almond essence. Mix until light and fluffy.
5. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Add this to the butter mix and beat until it forms a dough.
7. Split the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each into a 12-inch log.
8. Place two logs on each tray, spaced apart.
9. Press each one down gently with your fingers until it’s about 3 inches wide.
10. Brush the tops with a little milk, then sprinkle over the toasted almonds.
11. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the edges just start to turn golden. Don’t let them get too brown.
12. Take them out and, while still hot, slice them into 1-inch strips at an angle.
13. Press straight down with the knife, no sawing.
14. Put them back in the oven for 5 more minutes to finish baking. Then move to a rack to cool completely.
15. Drizzle with your choice of almond icing or melted chocolate.
16. Let set before serving or storing.

These bars are crisp on the edges, soft in the center, and packed with that classic almond flavor. Whether you go with the sweet icing or rich chocolate on top, they’ll disappear fast. Great with coffee, tea, or just straight off the tray.