1 c. shortening
1 (3 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 c. sugar
1 egg
1 tsp. almond extract
1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/4 c. finely chopped pecans
36 maraschino cherries, halved

Cream shortening and cream cheese, gradually add sugar. Beat until light and fluffy. Add egg and almond extract. Beat well. Sift flour, soda, and salt. Add sifted ingredients to creamed mixture, beating well. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour.

Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Roll in chopped pecans and press in sugar. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Press a cherry half into the center of each. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes. Yield: 6 dozen. This is a good Christmas cookie!