Minnesota Mail Carrier Cookies

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup shortening
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cooked wild rice
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease baking sheets.
2. In a large bowl, cream shortening and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt. Gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well.
4. Stir in wild rice, walnuts, raisins, and chocolate chips.
5. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto prepared baking sheets.
6. Bake 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes before removing to wire racks to cool completely.

Interesting Facts

• These cookies were originally created for Minnesota mail carriers who needed a hearty snack to fuel them on their long routes.
• The addition of wild rice gives the cookies a unique flavor and texture.
• These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.