Almond Streusel

YIELD: 2½ CUPS / 10 (2-OUNCE) INDIVIDUAL CRUSTS

            ½ cup all-purpose flour

            ¾ cup granulated sugar

            5 tablespoons cold unsalted butter

            ¼ teaspoon salt

            ¾ cup slivered almonds

1.    Preheat the oven to 325°F.

2.    In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Beat on low speed until well combined.

3.    Using a pastry blender or fork, cut in the butter until the mixture is crumbly. Be careful not to overmix.

4.    Using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, gently stir in the slivered almonds. (It is always best to do this by hand, as the paddle on a mixer will break and crush the almonds.)

5.    Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Crumble the mixture onto the baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the mixture starts to brown. (Watch it carefully—the streusel should be only lightly toasted.) Remove from the oven and set aside to cool to room temperature, about 1 hour.