Chocolate Chip Cookies

Sometimes the simple, tried and true recipes are the best. Such is the case this Valentine's Day. I asked the love of my life what he would like me to create for him today ... as my gift on this day of roses and chocolate ... and he wasted no time telling me that he had a craving for chocolate chip cookies. How could I refuse!

This is my "go to" recipe for chocolate chip cookies. I've tried different variations, always looking for the "perfect" cookie ... and I always end up back here. Wonderful flavor and delicious chewiness make them a favorite in our home.


OVEN: 375 degrees

2 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
2 cups chocolate chips (I usually use about 1 to 1 1/2 cups)

In a mixer bowl beat butter and shortening on a medium speed for 30 seconds. Add sugars and beat until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla ... beat well. Add dry ingredients to beaten mixture, beating until well combined. Stir in chocolate chips.

Drop from a teaspoon 2 inches apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet.

Baking for 8-10 minutes or until just browning around the edges. Remove and cool on a rack.

YIELD: Approx 3 dozen

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Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Warm, chewy chocolate chip cookies with cold milk ... who can resist them? These will taste especially good at our bonfire this weekend. Easy to make and a nice variation on a favorite cookie choice.

OVEN: 350 degrees

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups flour
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
3/4 cup chopped walnuts

Cream together butter, brown sugar and vanilla. Stir in flour until well mixed. Fold in chocolate chips and chopped walnuts. Press into 15x10" bar pan. Bake 20 minutes. While slightly warm, cut into squares.

YIELD: 24 bars

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