Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why I Love This Recipe
This is a classic chocolate chip cookie recipe that comes from Better Homes & Gardens Cookbook; it can be made with or without nuts (I didn't use any nuts, but only because I didn't have any!).
Ingredients You'll Need
1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp baking soda
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 (12 oz.) bag (2 cups) semisweet chocolate chips or miniature candy-coated semisweet chocolate pieces
1 1/2 cups chopped walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts (optional)
Directions
Preheat oven to 375 F.
In a large mixing bowl beat shortening and butter or margarine with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds; add brown sugar, granulated sugar and baking soda; beat until mixture is combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally.
Beat in eggs and vanilla until combined; beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer; stir in any remaining flour.
Stir in chocolate pieces and nuts (if using).
Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 inches apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
Transfer to a wire rack and let cool.