1 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
1 tsp. almond extract
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. chopped nuts
1 (3 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 egg
2 1/2 c. sifted flour
1/4 tsp. baking soda
Maraschino cherries, halved

Cream shortening and cream cheese together. Add sugar, egg and almond extract. Sift dry ingredients together and stir into creamed mixture. Chill dough. Form into 1" balls. Dip balls in nuts; place and press a cherry halve into center of each cookie. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes. Makes 4 1/2 dozen.