Ingredients:

• 1 cup shortening or softened butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Directions:

Heat oven to 375F (190C). In large bowl, beat shortening/softened butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla until creamy. In a medium bowl, mix together flour, baking soda and salt. Gradually blend into creamed mixture. Stir in chocolate chips and chopped nuts, if using. Drop dough by tablespoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 375F (190C) for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Nutritional Information:

makes about 4 dozen cookies