3 cups confectioners' sugar
4 egg yolks
2 eggs
1/3 cup almond paste, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups butter, at room temperature

Combine sugar, egg yolks, eggs, almond paste and salt in medium size saucepan. Beat with electric mixer until pale and fluffy. Beat in cream and vanilla extract until blended Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 6 minutes until mixture just starts simmering. Strain into large bowl. Refrigerate for 1 1/2 hours or until chilled.

Beat in butter with electric mixer until fluffy.

Icing can be made up to 1 week in advance, covered in airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. Let stand at room temperature until good spreading consistency.

Makes 6 cups.