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 mixing bowl, cream the shortening and the 3/4 cup sugar. Beat in the extract. Combine the flour, baking soda, and the salt. Gradually add to the creamed mixture. Stir in the gumdrops. In a small mixing 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 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Cool for 1 minute before removing from the pans. Cool completely on wire racks. Makes 3 1/2 dozen