Cherry Almond Chunky Chews

Cherry Almond Chunky Chews

1 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
3/4 teaspoon almond extract
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 1/2 cups flaked coconut
3/4 cup chopped almonds
1 jar 16 oz maraschino cherries, drained and halved

In mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugars. Add eggs, one at a time, beatingwell after each one. Add extract and mix well. Combine flour, baking soda, andsalt then add to cream mixture gradually. Stir in coconut and nuts. Drop byrounded teaspoonfuls 2 inches apart on a lightly greased baking sheet. Placehalved cherry in center of each cookie. Bake at 350 degrees for 12-14 minutes oruntil lightly browned. Remove to cooling rack.
Number of Servings: 7 dozen