Chocolate Chip Cookies

I got this recipe from my Better Homes cookbook. These are some of the best chocolate chip cookies I've had!

• Ready In: 33 mins
• Yields: 60 cookies

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup shortening
• 1⁄2 cup butter, softened
• 1  cup  packed brown sugar
• 1⁄2 cup granulated sugar
• 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt (I use 1/4 tsp.)
• 2  eggs
• 1  teaspoon vanilla
• 2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 (12 ounce) package  semisweet chocolate pieces or 1 (12 ounce) package  miniature candy-coated  semisweet chocolate pieces
• 1 1⁄2 cups  chopped walnuts or 1 1⁄2 cups pecans or 1 1⁄2 cups hazelnuts or 1 1⁄2 cups  filberts

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl beat shortening and butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds.
2. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, and baking soda. Beat until mixture is combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla until combined.
4. Beat in as much flour as you can with the mixer. Stir in any remaining flour. Stir in chocolate pieces and, if desired, nuts.
5. Drop dough by rounded teaspoons 2 inches apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool.