Snowballs (Boules de Neige)

 Snowballs (Boules de Neige)

  Makes about 18

  Little balls of almond and hazelnut meringue are rolled in snowy white sugar and baked into the most delectable crispy sweet treat. Offer these special treats as a petits four, after Christmas dinner, or package in a pretty box or cellophane bag as a gift.

  ¼ cup ground almonds

  ¼ cup ground hazelnuts

  ¾ cup icing sugar, plus extra, for dusting

  1 egg white

   

  Preheat the oven to 160°C. Line a baking tray with baking paper. Combine the ground nuts, sugar and egg white together in a large bowl to make a firm paste, which can be rolled in the hand.

  Divide the mixture into pieces the size of large hazelnuts. Roll each ball in sifted icing sugar to coat thickly. Arrange on the baking tray and bake for about 10 minutes, until well puffed. Dust with icing sugar if liked. Cool and transfer to paper cases to serve. Store in an airtight container.