Chocolate-covered Cherries

2 1/2 c Confectioners sugar
1/4 c Butter or margarine softened
1 tb Milk
1/2 ts Almond extract
16 oz Marichino cherries With stems well drained
2 c Semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tb Shortening In mixing bowl combine sugar, butter, milk and extract.
Mix well. Knead in to large ball. Roll in to 1 inch balls and flatten each in to 2 inch circle. Wrap around cherries and lightly roll in hands.
Place with stem up on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Cover loosely and refrigerate 4 hours or over night. Melt the chocolate chips and shortening in a double-boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Holding on to stem, dip cherries in to chocolate. Set on waxed paper to harden. Store in a covered container.