Chinese Almond Cookies

I am a part of a small group that meets on Sunday evenings .
We choose a different type of food each week. This week is Chinese, so I have chosen a real Chinese cookie the almond cookie. Unlike the fortune cookie the almond cookie is a traditional Chinese cookie. I think they are yummy so I am sharing them with you.

ALMOND COOKIE

Ingredients:

1cup shortening
3/4 cup sugar
2 eggs
1tblsp almond extract
2-1/4 cup flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup blanched almond halves
1 egg beaten

Directions:
 
In a bowl  with electric beaters, cream shortening and sugar.Beat in the eggs,one at a time,and mix well.Add almond extract.
In another bowl sift together flour,baking soda, and salt.With a wooden spoon gradually stir the flour mixture in to the shortening mixture.The dough should be fairly firm.Divide dough in half and roll in to a log 1- 1/2 inch diameter.Wrap in waxed paper and refridgerate 4 hours.
Preheat oven to 375 .Cut dough in 1/4 in slices. Place cookies on an ungreased cookie sheet or silpat.Top cookies with an almond halve.Brush cookie lightly with beaten egg.Bake for about 10 minutes or until light golden brown.

Note:
1. A great way to mix ingredient instead of sifting together is to use a wisk.
2. I am going to try this recipe with butter next time and will update when I do : )