Black Cat Ossa de Mordere Italian Cookies

Italian Bone Cookies, (literally "bones to chew") Sometimes called "ossa di morte" or "bones of the dead" and served on November 1, All Saints Day. They keep very well - much like biscotti, and are especially good dipped in coffee or sweet wine.

Preheat oven to 350.

Beat egg whites (with an electric mixer) until foamy.

Add sugar, cinnamon, lemon zest, baking powder, nutmeg and cloves and beat until well-blended.

Stir in the flour and almonds.

Take about 3 tbsp of dough and roll into a log about 2 1/2" long by about 1/2" wide. Repeat with remaining dough and place on a buttered baking dish.

Brush the tops with milk.

Bake 20 minutes or until lightly browned.

Let cool.

From the Black Cat Cafe & Bakery, Sharon Springs, NY http://blackcat-ny.com/halloween2007/