Revisiting Chocolate Chip Cookies and the Rodeo

Normally, September would be county fair time all across south central Texas. And that can only mean one thing.

Rodeo! 

Of course, things are a little different this year. The fair has been pared down significantly and there will be no  rodeo. So, instead, we're just going to take a little step back in time to our first county fair .

Where patriotism reigns.

Along with ropin',

Barrel racing,

Bronc and bull riding.

It's a tradition that's gone on for decades. And small town at its best.

But, boy, it'll work up an appetite and have your sweet tooth clamoring for something every bit as classic. And you can't get more classic than chocolate chip cookies.

Here's what you'll need:

• 1/2 cup (one stick) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 1/4 cups flour
• 2 cups chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and shortening.

Add sugars...

And beat until well blended. 

Add eggs.

And, you guessed it, beat well. Until it looks like this.

With mixer on low, add flour, salt, soda and cinnamon a little at a time so as not to send flour flying everywhere. Once everything is incorporated, beat at medium to high speed for another minute.

Stir in chocolate chips and nuts, if you're using them. I didn't, because there are some in my house who frown on nuts. Brats.

 Spoon onto ungreased baking sheet. I like to use a cookie scoop, like this.

I have a larger one I use when I'm making cupcakes. It helps keep everything nice and uniform. 

Bake 8-12 minutes, or until golden.

There's a reason these cookies are a classic. And they always get eaten.

Now it's your turn. Have you ever been to a rodeo? If so, what's your favorite event? And more important, what's your favorite cookie?

Award-winning author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, one sassy pup, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she's not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching copious amounts of the Hallmark Channel. Learn more at mindyobenhaus.com