Simple Pleasures

Last week I volunteered to make cookies for a Trauma Workshop being planned for the Lost Boys, (now men) and their families. I have long admired these gentlemen and a certain woman in my church who has worked out tutoring for them, transportation and all sorts of things. When I saw that she needed food, I jumped at the chance to finally help out a little bit.

I made the cookies that have become such a hit in our house. While making oatmeal one morning, I saw the recipe on the back of the box. I'm sure it's the same old oatmeal cookie recipe that's graced cookie jars for years but there is a reason for that. They're Yummy!

The recipe says it will make 5 dozen. I think you'd have to make them very small to squeeze another two dozen but I did get three. I do like to make them generous in size as all of the males in my home are man-sized, as are their appetites. :) I did manage to make the two dozen promised to the church and one for my family. I try to make these once or twice a week (although, they are irresistable and adding to my waistline!)

Ingredients:
1 cup vegetable shortening
1 cup sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1.5 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
3 cups Old Fashioned Oats
1 cup chopped walnuts, optional
1 cup raisins, optional

Beat shortening and sugars until creamy.
Using a very sophisticated and modern beater, as shown here.
This is how it will look.
Add eggs and vanilla
Mix well and thenCombine flour, baking soda and salt. Add to shortening mixture.Mix well. Stir in oats,nuts and raisins(I excluded the raisins)Using rounded tablespoons, roll into balls.(I just scoop it straight from the bowl) Place two inches apart on greased cookie sheet.
Bake 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Let stand one minute before removing to racks to cool.
Here they are bagged and ready to take to church, plus a plate left over for my family. Nick seemed to enjoy them.