Cherry Almond Coconut Cookies

I am a little obsessed with coconut right now, so when I saw this recipe over at Sugar Duchess I just had to make them, and they are so very good!


1 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
3/4 teaspoon almond extract
2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2-1/2 cups flaked coconut
1 jar maraschino cherries, drained and halved

In a large mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in extract. Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Stir in coconut.

Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 inches apart onto lightly greased baking sheets. Place a cherry half in the center of each. Bake at 350 degrees for 12-13 minutes. Immediately remove to wire racks to cool.