Almond Bear Claws

With the slits cut on top, these pastries resemble a bear's claw. And you'll need a bear-sized appetite to wolf down these treats?ooh they're so good!!

Makes: 1 1/2 Dozen

Preparation Time: 18 min

Cooking Time: 18 min

Ingredients

• 1 (17.3-ounce) package frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
• 1 (12-ounce) can almond filling
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/3 cup sliced almonds
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Cut each puff pastry sheet into 9 (3-inch) squares. Spread half of each square with 2 teaspoons almond filling, pressing edges gently to seal. Using a sharp knife, cut 3 slits in top of pastry; curve pastry slightly to resemble claws, and place on lightly greased baking sheets.
    
2. Whisk together egg yolk and water in a small bowl; brush egg mixture over pastries, and sprinkle evenly with almonds.
    
3. Bake 16 minutes or until golden. Remove from pans to a wire rack; cool.
    
4. Microwave chocolate chips in a small bowl at MEDIUM (50 percent power) 1-1/2 minutes or until chocolate melts, stirring halfway. Drizzle chocolate evenly over pastries.