Coconut Delight Cookies

Hello, my name is Maren and I am your guest blogger for today! I am excited because it's a special day at my house, and I have a special treat for you.

These delicious coconut cookies are perfect for after-school snacks, for dessert, for that party you're going to next week, or just about anytime come to think of it. The base cookie is chewy, like my favorite chocolate chip cookies are. The cereal adds a nice bit of crunch, the coconut adds additional texture, and the chocolate chips add that special goodness. You can also make these sans chips should you so desire, or try adding your favorite chocolate replacement (dried fruit, nuts, other chips, and so on...).

But, whatever you do, please make sure you have a solid plan for how to share these delightful cookies, otherwise you might be tempted to eat the whole batch yourself. You have been warned. Enjoy!

Coconut Delights

1/2 cup shortening

1/4 cup soft butter

1 cup packed light brown sugar

1 egg

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup flour

1 tsp baking soda

2 1/2 cups Cheerios-type cereal (honey-nut or regular), crushed to about 1 1/2 cups

1 cup coconut

1 3/4 cups chocolate chips

Heat oven to 350º and grease cookie sheets (or use silicone mats). Beat shortening, butter and sugar till smooth and creamy. Add egg and vanilla, beat well. Add flour and baking soda and mix well. Stir in cereal, coconut, and chocolate chips. Dough will be loose. (Refrigerate if desired.) Drop by tablespoon onto cookie sheets. Bake 8-10 minutes till lightly browned being careful not to over-bake. Let cool on baking sheet a few minutes before transferring to cooling rack. Makes about 3 dozen.