Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookies

Keep that sourdough starter active by using it for more than just pancakes and bread—like in this terrific recipe for chocolate chip cookies.

Recipe Ingredients:

4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter, softened
1 cup vegetable shortening
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 1/4 cups brown sugar, packed
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup sourdough starter (see recipe)
4 large eggs
2 (12-ounce) packages semisweet chocolate chips
1 3/4 cups chopped walnuts

Cooking Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl combine flour, baking soda and salt; set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, shortening, and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, beating until well blended. Add vanilla and sourdough starter; mixing well. Stir in flour mixture until just mixed. Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts.
4. Drop by tablespoonfuls 2-inches apart onto baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Turn baking sheet around after 6 minutes to ensure even browning. Transfer cookies to wire rack to cool completely. Store in tightly covered container at room temperature.

Makes 5 dozen cookies.