Cookie Recipe from VT Conference

For those of you like me that LOVED the cookies at our conference, here's the recipe:

Cherry Almond Chews

1 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
1 c. packed brown sugar
2 eggs
3/4 tsp. almond extract
2 1/2 c. all purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
2 1/2 c. flaked coconut
3/4 c. chopped almonds or pecans, optional
1 jar (16 oz.) maraschino cherries, drained and halved

In mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugars. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in extract. Combine flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Stir in coconut and nuts if desired. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 in. apart onto lightly greased baking sheets. Place a cherry half in the center of each. Bake at 350 degrees for 12-14 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.
Yield: about 7 dozen
These cookies freeze well.

Thanks Heather!