The Season of Giving

This year, for Alex’s teachers’ gifts, I decided to bake chocolate chip cookies. My mom used to bake gifts for my teachers and it is a tradition I would like to continue. I have been using this recipe for years. It is my go-to recipe when I am in need of a crowd pleaser. In fact, I baked over 250 to go into the welcome bags at Andy’s and my wedding, and was asked for the recipe countless times at the wedding. 

Finished product. 

I picked up these boxes at Michael's, and lined them with white paper towels.
Afterwards, I added this crinkle to the bottom to make them more festive.

Each box fit about two dozen cookies. 

I wrapped them in cream paper and tied them with green, red and cream ribbons. 

Chocolate Chip Cookies

INGREDIENTS

2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon of baking soda

1 teaspoon of salt

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened

3/4 cup of granulated sugar

1 cup of packed brown sugar

3 teaspoons of vanilla extract

2 large eggs

1 package of Vanilla or French Vanilla pudding mix

1 package of chocolate chips (I usually use milk chocolate)

Makes about three dozen.

DIRECTIONS

• Pre-heat oven to 350° F.
• Mix butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl until creamy.
• Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Gradually beat in flour, baking soda and salt. Mix in pudding mixture.
• Stir in morsels.
• Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.
• Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown.
• Cool on baking sheets for two minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.