Spicy sugar cookies

Beat the butter and sugar together until light.

Add the egg yolk and beat well.

Sift the flour and spices into the bowl.

Add the brandy and mix to form a soft dough.

Knead for two minutes, then roll out onto a lightly floured surface to a 5 mm thickness.

Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes and place on a greased baking tray.

Bake in a preheated 200 °C oven for 10 minutes.

Beat the egg white lightly.

Remove the biscuits from the oven and brush with the egg white.

Sprinkle with castor sugar, then return to the oven and bake for a further five minutes, or until golden.

Remove from the oven and cool on a baking tray.

Store in an airtight container until ready to eat.

Serve as a treat with hot chocolate.