Directions

1. 1. Soak the cherries in the cherry brandy in a small bowl for 15 minutes. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.
2. 2. Preheat the oven to 375°F/19O°C/ gas 5.
3. 3. Butter a cookie sheet.
4. 4. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into a large bowl.
5. 5. Beat the butter and sugar in a large bowl with an electric mixer at high speed until creamy.
6. 6. Add the eggs and vanilla, beating until just blended.
7. 7. Mix in the dry ingredients, almonds, and cherries to form a stiff dough.
8. 8. Divide the dough in half. Form the dough into two 12-inch (30-cm) logs and place 2 inches (5-cm) apart on the prepared cookie sheet, flattening them slightly.
9. 9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until firm to the touch.
10. 10. Transfer to a cutting board to cool for 15 minutes.
11. 11. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F/170°C/gas 3.
12. 12. Cut on the diagonal into 1-inch (2.5-cm) slices.
13. 13. Arrange the slices cut-side up on two cookie sheets and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden and toasted.
14. 14. Transfer to racks to cool.