Ultimate Chcocolate Chip Cookies

1 1/2 cups butter flavored shortening
2 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons salt
4 tablespoons milk
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped walnuts- optional

1.HEAT oven to 375ºF.

2.COMBINE shortening, brown sugar, milk and vanilla in large bowl. Beat at medium speed of electric mixer until well blended. Beat in egg. Combine flour, salt and baking soda. Mix into shortening mixture until just blended. Stir in chocolate chips and nuts.

3.DROP by rounded measuring tablespoonfuls 3 inches apart onto ungreased baking sheet.

4.BAKE 8 to 10 minutes for chewy cookies, or 11 to 13 minutes for crisp cookies. Cool 2 minutes on baking sheet on a cooling rack. Remove cookies to rack to cool completely.

TIP* If nuts are omitted, add an additional 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips.

Sue Miller