Cream sugar and margarine until light and fluffy.

Add flour, salt, nutmeg, and almond flavoring to the creamed mixture.

Incorporate chopped almonds, if desired.

Form the dough into balls.

Pat the balls flat to about 1/2-inch thickness.

Bake slowly at 300°F (150°C) for about 1 hour, or until pale tan in color.

While still warm, sprinkle generously with confectioners' sugar.

Allow the scones to cool completely.

Store the cooled scones in airtight tins.

For optimal flavor, allow the scones to age for several days before serving.