Banketstaven (Dutch Letters)

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl stir together flour and salt.

Step 2: Cut cold butter into 1/2-inch-thick slices and add to flour mixture and toss until slices are coated and are separated.

Step 3: In a small mixing bowl stir together egg and ice water.

Step 4: Add all at once to flour mixture. Using a spoon, quickly mix (butter will remain in large pieces and flour will not be completely moistened).

Step 5: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough 10 times by pressing and pushing dough together to form a rough-looking ball. Shape the dough into a rectangle (dough still will have some dry-looking areas). Make corners as square as possible. Slightly flatten dough.

Step 6: Working on a well-floured surface, roll dough into a 15x10-inch rectangle. Fold 2 short sides to meet in center; fold in half like a book to form 4 layers each measuring 7-1/2x5 inches.

Step 7: Repeat the rolling and folding process once more. Wrap dough with plastic wrap. Chill dough for 20 minutes in refrigerator. Repeat rolling and folding process 2 more times. Chill dough for 20 minutes before using.

Step 8: For filling, in a bowl stir together egg white, almond paste, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and the brown sugar. Set aside.

Step 9: Preheat oven to 375F

Step 10: Using a sharp knife, cut dough crosswise into 4 equal parts. Wrap 3 portions in plastic wrap and return to the refrigerator.

Step 11: On a well-floured surface, roll 1 portion into a 12-1/2x10-inch rectangle. Cut rectangle into four 10x3-inch strips.

Step 12: Spread rounded tablespoon of filling down center of each strip. Roll up each strip around the paste. Brush edge and ends with water; pinch to seal.

Step 13: Place, seam side down, on an ungreased baking sheet, shaping strip into a letter (traditionally the letter S). Brush with water and sprinkle with additional granulated sugar.

Step 14: Repeat with remaining dough strips and filling. Repeat with remaining 3 dough portions and filling.

Step 15: Bake in a 375 degree F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden. Remove from baking sheet; cool on racks.

Step 16: Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze if desired