Aren't they pretty? They are such delicious cookies, with a great festive look. If you are at all a fan of coconut, or anything flavored with almond extract (one of my favorite extracts), you will love these cookies.
1 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
3/4 tsp almond extract
2-1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2-1/2 cups flaked coconut
3/4 cups almonds or pecans, chopped (optional, mine were just fine without them)
1 jar maraschino cherries, drained and halved
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in extract. Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Stir in coconut and nuts.
2. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 in. apart onto lightly greased baking sheets. Place a cherry half in the center of each. Bake at 350 for 12-14 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.
