1/3 c. shortening
2 eggs
1 1/4 c. brown sugar
1 1/4 c. flour
1 1/4 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1 c. semi sweet chocolate chips
1/2 c. nuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9 x 9 inch pan. Mix shortening, sugar and eggs. Add dry ingredients, stir until well blended. Stir in chocolate chips and nuts. Spread mixture evenly in pan. Bake 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool and cut in bars. Makes 16 bars. Option: May also be served hot. Cut in 9 large bars and serve warm with a scoop of ice cream on top.