I come from a long line of women who love whipping up some tasty creations in the kitchen. Whether we are preparing an elaborate holiday spread, bringing a sweet treat to a shower or birthday party, or just want to try something new to spice up an otherwise ho-hum weeknight, most women in my family take great pride in their creativity and outcomes in the kitchen. It’s in my blood and I couldn’t be more proud.
While Paula has her butter, many women in my family believe in the power of Crisco to make our recipes stand out. From fried chicken to pies and everything in between, Crisco has often been discovered as the secret ingredient that makes so many people say “This is the best I’ve ever had! What’s your secret?”
As a woman who tries to lead a pretty healthy lifestyle, I only pull out the Crisco for very special occasions. I believe in moderation, the healing power of a good dessert, and also doing things right. I’d hate to hear the voices of my aunts and grandmothers in my head every time I try to adjust a classic recipe saying, “Don’t you mess with a good thing! Do it the right way and you won’t have to wonder why it doesn’t taste as good!”
This tried and true chocolate chip cookie recipe is my absolute favorite. I make them for any kind of occasion and seconds are always requested. I did consider sharing a recipe that wasn’t quite as close to my heart, but I figured that we’re all family at CSU so I might as well give you the best!
While I am glad to make my female lineage proud because of the game-changing ingredient in this recipe, being that February is Heart Health month, I should say that one can use applesauce in its place for a healthier alternative, although taste and texture will be different! If substitutions aren’t your style and you want to make all the aunts and grandmothers proud, we believe that a treat is permissible with moderation!
Not Your Mama’s Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
- ¾ cup Crisco
- 1 ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp milk (I like to use coconut milk)
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 ¾ cup flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ¾ tsp baking soda
- 1 package chocolate chips
- (optional- add other favorite ingredients such as coconut, M&Ms, nuts, etc.)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees
- Combine brown sugar, Crisco, milk, vanilla
- Beat in egg
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, baking soda
- Mix dry mix into Crisco mixture until just blended
- Stir in chocolate chips
- Bake 8-10 minutes on ungreased baking sheets
- Let cool on wire racks
Enjoy warm, maybe with a glass of milk, and try, just try, to stop at one!
By: Libby Reilly
