Ingredients
1. 1 cup butter, softened
2. 1 cup shortening
3. 2 cups packed brown sugar
4. 1 cup sugar
5. 4 eggs
6. 2 to 3 teaspoons almond extract
7. 4 cups all-purpose flour
8. 1 cup quick-cooking oats
9. 1 cup baking cocoa
10. 2 teaspoons baking soda
11. 2 teaspoons salt
12. 3 cups (18 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
13. 1 jar (16 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
14. 1 cup sliced almonds, optional

Directions

1. In a large bowl, cream butter, shortening and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in extract. Combine the flour, oats, cocoa, baking soda and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture and mix well. Transfer to a larger bowl if necessary. Stir in chocolate chips, cherries and almonds if desired.
2. Roll into 1-1/2-in. balls. Place 3 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375° for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are firm. Remove to wire racks to cool. Yield: about 5-1/2 dozen.