SWEDISH ALMOND RUSKSc

5 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup shortening

1 3/4 cups sugar

2 eggs

1 cup sour cream

2 1/2 teaspoons almond extract

1 cup finely chopped almonds

Sift flour, baking soda and salt together.  Cream shortening in mixer bowl until light.  Add sugar, beating until fluffy.  Beat in eggs 1 at a time.  Add sour cream and almond extract; mix well.  Add flour mixture and almonds; mix well.  Shape into 6 logs.  Place on ungreased baking sheet.  Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.  Remove to cutting board.  Cut diagonally into 1/2-inch slices.  Stand slices on baking sheet.  Bake for 20 minutes or until  light brown on all sides.