Valentine Sandwich Biscuits

Beat the butter in a mixing bowl until soft. Add the sugar, flour and ground almonds and mix with your hands to form a dough.

Knead the dough lightly until smooth. Wrap in cling film and chill for 1 hour.

Heat the oven to 150°C (130° fan) 300°F gas 2. Line 2 large baking trays with non-stick baking paper.

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface, about 5mm|1/4" thick. Cut into heart shapes using a heart-shaped cookie cutter and place on the baking trays.

Bake for about 20 minutes until lightly golden. Cool on the baking trays for a few minutes, then place on a wire rack to cool completely.

For the filling: beat the butter until soft. Sift in the icing sugar and beat well until smooth. Beat in the jam until blended.

Sandwich the hearts in pairs with the buttercream.

For the icing: sift the icing sugar into a bowl and beat in just enough hot water until smooth and thick. Beat in the vanilla.