Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe:  Yields…approx. 4 dozen

3/4       cup brown sugar

1/2       cup granulated sugar

1/2       cup butter, at room temperature

1/2       cup shortening

2           teaspoons vanilla extract

1           large egg

1 3/4    cup all purpose flour

1/2       teaspoon salt

1 1/2    teaspoons baking soda

1          cup semi sweet, or milk chocolate baking chips (1/2 of  a 12-oz bag)…you can mix them if you like

optional ingredients:  1/2 chopped pecans, or 1/2 cup shredded coconut

In a large mixing bowl, whip brown sugar, granulated sugar, butter, and shortening until light and fluffy.  Add the vanilla and 1 egg, and mix to incorporate. 

In a separate mixing  bowl or large measuring cup add flour, salt and baking soda.  Stir to incorporate ingredients.  Slowly mix dry ingredients into batter, and add optional ingredients if any.  Mix only until blended.  Stir in chocolate chips.  At this point you may wish to transfer mixture into a smaller bowl.  Cover and refrigerate for one hour. 

Using a small cookie scoop drop cookie dough by rounded teaspoonful on a baking sheet 2 inches apart.  Bake  in an oven preheated to 375 degrees for about 10 minutes or until light, golden brown.  Cool on sheet for 1 minute and place on cooling rack.

Tip:  Sometimes I want a really chocolaty  cookie, so I use 2 cups of chocolate or an entire 12-oz bag.