3/4 c. butter
1 1/2 c. firmly packed light brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2 1/4 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. M & M's plain chocolate candies
1/2 c. chopped nuts; optional

Beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy; blend in eggs and vanilla. Gradually add combined flour, baking soda, and salt; mix well. Stir in candies and nuts. Drop by heaping tablespoons onto greased cookie sheet about 3 inches apart. Press 3-4 additional candies into each cookie if desired.

Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on cookie sheet about 3 minutes. Remove to wire rack to cool completely. Makes about 2 dozen 3 1/2 inch cookies.

VARIATION: For 4 dozen 3 1/2 inch cookies, double ingredients. Proceed as recipe directs.