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.