Cherry Almod Chews

Makes about 7 dozens

• 1 cup shortening
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2½ cups flaked coconut
• ¾ cup chopped almonds or pecans
• 1 jar (16 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained and halved

1. In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugars ; add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition and mix in the almond extract.
2. Combine flour, baking soda and salt ; gradually add to the creamed mixture.
3. Stir in coconut and nuts.
4. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 in. apart onto a lightly greased baking sheets ; place a cherry half in the center of each.
5. Bake at 350F for 12-14 minutes or until lightly browned ; remove to wire racks to cool.

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