Hazelnut Squares

3 cups hazelnuts
5 cups flour
2 ½ cups sugar
1 pound melted and cooled butter (do not substitute margarine or shortening)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast them for 8 minutes, or until fragrant. Cool the nuts and then chop them finely. Set aside.

Whisk together the flour and sugar. Add the melted butter and mix until smooth. Add the nuts and mix until incorporated. Spread the dough into a greased baking sheet. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool slightly and then cut into small squares or diamonds. Store in an airtight container.

Makes about 50 squares.

Note: You can also drizzle melted bittersweet or white chocolate over the squares.