This sounds close to what you are looking for. I've been making it since the 70's.

Cherry Nut Nuggets

1 cup shortening
1 pkg (3 oz) cream cheese softened
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1 teasoon almond extract
2 1/2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/3 cups finely chopped pecans
Maraschino cherries, drained & halved.

Cream shortening and cream cheese together, gradually
add sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add egg and
almond extract. Beat well.

Combine flour, salt and soda. Stir into cream mixture.
Chill dough at least one hour.

Shape dough into 1 inch balls. Roll in pecans and place
on ungreased cooking sheets. Gently press a cherry
half into the center of each cookie. Bake at 350 F.
for 16 to 18 minutes. Makes about 4 dozen.