Chewy Brownie Cookies

2/3 C. shortening

1 ½ C. brown sugar

1 Tbs. water

1 tsp. vanilla

2 eggs

1 ½ C. flour

1/3 C. baking cocoa

¼ tsp. baking soda

½ tsp. salt

12-oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips

Mix shortening, sugar, water & vanilla. Beat in eggs. Combine dry ingredients, mix in until blended.  Add chips.  Drop on ungreased cookie sheet; bake at 375 degrees for 7-9 minutes, until set- they will appear soft and moist- do not overbake.  Cool on sheet for 2 minutes, remove to rack.  Makes 3 – 3 ½ dozen.

*Christmas Option: Upon removing from the oven, place a single Andes Mint on top of each cookie, smoothing with a spreading knife as they melt.  This “frosting” will harden as the cookies cool.