Almond Spritz Cookies

In a large bowl, beat butter, shortening, sugar, and almond paste with electric mixer on low speed until well combined. Add egg whites, vanilla, and salt; beat until fluffy. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Stir in any remaining flour with a spoon.

Drop dough by small spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten slightly. (Or, force unchilled dough through cookie press onto an ungreased cookie sheet.) Sprinkle with some colored decorative candies and/or sugar, if you like.

Bake cookies in a 350 degree F oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are firm, but not brown. Remove cookies and cool on a wire rack. Makes about 96 cookies.