Bird Cookies

This recipe is easy to make and doesn't require a cookie cutter. Before the dough is made, download the Bird Cookie template.

Ingredients:
2 sticks softened Butter
1 Egg
1 1/2 cups Sugar
2 teaspoons Vanilla
1 teaspoon Almond Extract
1 1/2 cups Flour
2 1/2 cups Quick Oats (grind to a course flour in the blender)
1/2 cup Almonds (grind to a powder in the blender)
1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
1/2 teaspoon Salt

Decorations:
1 Sunflower Seed for the eye of each bird—you can also use a Raisin, cranraisin or nut
Pretzel sticks for feet

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Cream butter, egg, sugar, vanilla and almond extract until the mixture is smooth. Slowly add the other ingredients while stirring constantly. When the dough is done, it will be dry and a little like clay. (If it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water).

Slide the bird template under a glass plate or glass cutting board and use the template as a guide to shape the dough into birds on top of the glass. They should be about 1/8 inch high and somewhat flat.

When the bird is formed, add the eye and feet decorations.

Carefully transfer the birds to a cookie sheet and cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Please note that baking time depends on the thickness of the birds.

When the cookies are done, you can sprinkle some cinnamon on top for added flavor.

Serve with yogurt or milk for a delightful treat.