Chinese Almond Cookies
Chinese New Year Good Luck cookies!
(Makes about 5 dozen)

1 C solid vegetable shortening
1/2 C sugar
1/4 C firmly packed brown sugar
1 egg
1 tsp almond extract
2 1/4 C all-purpose flour
1/8 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
about 5 dozen whole blanched almonds
1 egg yolk
2 T water



1. In large bowl of an electric mixer (or cuisinart) beat shortening with granulated sugar and brown sugar until creamy.

2. Add whole egg and almond extract; beat until well blended.

3. In another bowl, stir together flour, salt, and baking powder; add to creamed mixture, blending thoroughly. (If using a cuisinart do this by hand or the dough gets too tough).

4. To shape each cookie, roll about 1 Tablespoon dough into a ball. Place balls 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets, then flatten each slightly to make a 2-inch round. Gently press an almond into center of each round.

5. Place egg yolk and water in a small bowl; beat together lightly with a fork.

6. Brush mixture over top of each cookie with a pastry brush.
Bake in a 350°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned.

7. Transfer to racks and let cool. Store airtight.