Combine ground almonds, sugar, egg whites, vanilla and almond essence in a mixing bowl.

Beat mixture with electric whisk on medium speed for about 3 minutes.

Let mixture rest for 5 minutes while you prepare baking trays with non stick baking paper and pre heat oven to 180 C.

Spoon mixture into a piping bag with a 1 cm plain tube.

Pipe mixture onto the baking paper in a circular motion to form a biscuit.

Place one blanched almond on top of each biscuit and bake for about 12 – 15 minutes or until tops are lightly brown.

Remove from the oven, leave to cool for a few minutes before placing on a wire rack to cool.