Kellie's Big Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 cups shortening
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
4 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla

4 1/2 cups flour
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons soda

12 oz. package of mini chocolate chips
1 cup walnuts (optional)

In a mixer.... add
shortening, sugars, eggs (one at a time) and vanilla, blend well.
In a seperate bowl... add dry ingredients then wisk until blended. (this takes the place of sifting) Then add to sugar mixture, mixing thoroughly. Finally add chocolate chips and nuts or candies.

Drop by teaspoonful onto ungreased baking sheet. Cook for 10-12 minutes at 350 degrees, remove to wire rack to cool.

I make these every Christmas. As a very good variation chop finely thin mint candies and add to recipe as the last ingredient. It's a nice minty change for the holidays. You can also put candy canes into the food processor and add to dough, this also gives it a touch of red for the holidays.