Chocolate Coffee Cookies

Description: These are the best and one of my favorite cookie recipes, and I have made my share of many recipes over the years but have always come back time after time to make these cookies, I just love the coffee and chocolate taste! --- you may substitute 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla for the maple extract :)

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup Crisco shortening
• 1 teaspoon maple extract
• 1 large egg, slightly beaten
• 1 3/4 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup walnuts (optional)

Steps:

1. Set oven to 350°.
2. Set oven rack to second-lowest position.
3. Prepare/grease a large cookie sheet.
4. Cream sugars with butter and shortening (about 2 minutes).
5. Beat in egg and maple extract.
6. In a bowl, sift dry ingredients, and add to the creamed mixture; beat until combined.
7. Add in the chocolate chips and nuts.
8. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet.
9. Bake for 8-10 minutes (don't overbake!).
10. Cool and remove to a wire rack.