Gumdrop Cookies

Gumdrop Cookies

3/4 cup shortening
1 cup sugar, divided
1/2 tsp almond extract
1 3/4 cups flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup chopped fruit-flavored
or spiced gumdrops
2 egg whites

In a large bowl, cream the shortening and 3/4 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the extract. Combine the flour, baking soda, and the salt. Gradually add to the creamed mixture. Mix well. Stir in the gumdrops. In a small bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar. Beat until stiff peaks form. Fold into the dough. Drop by heaping teaspoonfuls 2 inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350 F for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Cool for 1 minute before removing from the pans to wire racks to cool completely. Makes 3 1/2 dozen