Chocolate Chip Cookies

Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large mixing bowl beat shortening and butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds.

Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, and baking soda. Beat on medium 2 minutes, scraping bowl occasionally.

Beat in eggs and vanilla until combined.

Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Using a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour.

Stir in chocolate pieces and, if desired, nuts.

Drop dough by small spoonfuls 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake 6 to 8 minutes or until edges are lightly browned (cookies may not appear set). Cool on cookie sheets 2 minutes. Transfer cookies to a wire rack; cool. Makes about 48 cookies.