Orange-Chocolate Chippers (thing)

Another wonderfully unhealthy food included in Caitlin's holiday baskets. As with her Choco-Mint Brownies, she has included the recipe along with the yummy baked goods.

Orange-Chocolate Chippers:

Serves 12

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shortening
• 6 ounces cream cheese; softened
• 1/2 cup sugar; granulated
• 1/2 cup brown sugar; packed
• 2 large eggs
  
• 2 teaspoons orange peel; grated
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
  
• 2 cups flour; unbleached
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 6 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup nuts; finely chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cream together shortening, cream cheese, and sugars. Add eggs, orange peel, and vanilla. Beat well.
2. Stir together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to creamed mixture. Mix well. Stir in chocolate chips.
3. Drop from teaspoon 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Sprinkle lightly with nuts or granulated sugar if desired. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about ten minutes. Makes 6 dozen cookies.

Enjoy!