Gumdrop Cookies

Gumdrop Cookies

3/4 cup shortening

1 cup sugar; divided

1/2 teaspoon almond extract

1 3/4 cup flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup choped fruit flavored gumdrops

2 egg whites

1. In a large bowl, cream shortening and 3/4 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in extract. Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in gumdrops.

2. In a small bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Fold into dough.

3. Drop by heaping teaspoonfuls 2-inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Cool for 1 minute before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.