M & M Cookies

I am going to try to post as many cookies, treats, and desserts as possible between now and Christmas. Since I like to have goodies on hand between Christmas and New Years,I don't like to get my baking done too far in advance. My plans are to freeze some, give some away, and still have plenty to go around.

This particular cookie recipe was given to me when I first got married, almost 30 years ago, gasp! There was a sweet older woman in the church my Dad pastored that made these and I had to have the recipe. That same year I made them for a cookie swap and it won first prize! I'm happy to share it with you today.

Our family began a tradition years ago that includes having hot apple cider and cookies—right out of the oven—while we put up the Christmas tree. It's always a real tree, of course! Usually we put it up around the 10th of December. This year we had a bit of trouble finding a tree so we went to a tree farm and cut our own for the very first time. Had so much fun! Our only regret is that that we forgot to take the camera.

This cookie is a great alternative to chocolate chip cookies–its wonderful counterpart. I love the addition of oatmeal—Yum!

M & M Cookies

• 1 cup shortening
• 1/2 cup butter (softened)
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 eggs
• 3 Tablespoons Milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 3 cups flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups oatmeal (quick cooking or old fashioned)
• 1 1/2 cups m&m's

Directions

Preheat oven to 375.

In a mixing bowl combine the shortening, butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar. Beat until creamy. Add eggs, one at at time. Beat well. Add vanilla, mix.

In a separate bowl combine flour, soda and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, beat until incorporated. Add oatmeal and chocolate chips. Stir until mixed.

Drop by rounded teaspoons onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool slightly, remove from cookie sheet to wire rack.

Note: This makes a lot of cookies (6-7 dozen). You can bake some right away and freeze the rest of the dough. Frozen cookie dough will need more time in the oven.