Cream 1/2 cup butter and 1/2 cup shortening. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar, blending well. Blend in 1 teaspoon almond extract, 2 1/4 cups flour, and mix well. Shape dough into balls using one level tablespoon of dough for each cookie. Place on ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes.