Pistachio Mandel Bread

Desserts

INGREDIENTS

3 cups flour
2/3 cup sugar
3 eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 orange grated, rind only
1 lemon grated, rind only
1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla
1/2 cup whole pistachios (nicely green in color)
2/3 cup oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg apricot jam

DIRECTIONS

1. Beat eggs with salt one at a time until fluffy. Gradually add sugar.

2. Gradually add oil with rinds and vanilla.

3. Gradually add in flour.

4. Take off from machine and add pistachios and nutmeg. Mix well.

5. Form into large ball and refrigerate for 2 hours.

6. Oil hands and form 4 balls.

7. Take 2 baking sheets lined with parchment paper and form 2 long logs on each tray.

8. Brush lightly with apricot jam, lightly sprinkle sugar and cinnamon on top.

9. Bake at 350° on second rack for 15 minutes until just lightly toasted.

10. Remove and slice on diagonal approximately 1/2-inch each slice.

11. Arrange back on cleaned baking tray lying down on middle track for 10-20 minutes or until golden brown.

12. Remove and cool.