1/4 c. unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 c. powdered sugar
1 tbsp. milk
1 tsp. cherry brandy or chocolate cherry or 1/2 tsp. almond extract
2 (10 oz.) jars maraschino cherries with stems, drained
1 (12 oz.) pkg. semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tbsp. shortening

1. Line baking sheet with wax paper.

2. In small bowl, cream butter, sugar, milk and flavoring until fluffy.

3. On surface lightly sprinkled with powdered sugar, knead mix into a ball. Using fingers shape 1 teaspoon into 2 inch flattened disc. Mold around cherry to cover completely leaving stem exposed. Place on baking sheet. Cover loosely and chill 4 hours.

4. Place chocolate chips and shortening in 2 cup glass cup. Microwave on MEDIUM 3 to 5 minutes stirring each minute until smooth.

5. Dip cherry into chocolate covering up 1/8 inch of stem. Shake off excess. Place on tray covered with wax paper.

6. Drizzle leftover sauce over cherries in swirls. Chill 15 minutes to set. Serve at room temperature.