Creole Beauty Cake


2/3 c shortening
1 t salt
1 t almond extract
1 1/2 c sugar
pink coloring
1 c chopped almonds
3 c cake flour
3 1/2 t baking powder
1 c fresh milk
4 egg whites, beaten fluffy

Combine shortening, salt, and flavoring.  Add sugar and cream well.  Sift four and baking powder 3 times, add to creamed mixture alternately with milk.  Add pink coloring to only 2/3 of this mixture and pour into 2 greased 8" layer pans.  In the remaining batter, add cherries and pour into the third 8"layer pan.  Bake 350 degrees for 30 minutes.  Let cool and cover with your choice of icing.