This is the blank canvas from which all other drop cookies are created. Try different extracts, decorate them any which way, or mix in some nuts — you are limited only by your imagination.
1/2 cup vegetable shortening
1/2 cup butter and margarine, softened
2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided use
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 375°F.
In a large bowl cream shortening and butter until well blended. Add 1 cup flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda and vanilla. Beat until combined, then stir in remaining 1 1/4 cups flour.
Drop batter by teaspoonfuls 2-inches apart onto an ungreased baking sheet. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are golden. Cool on baking sheet for 1 minute before transferring to wire racks.
makes 36 cookies.