1 c. shortening
2 (3 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1/2 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. brown sugar, packed
2 eggs
2 tsp. grated orange peel
1 tsp. vanilla
2 c. all purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1 (6 oz.) pkg. semisweet chocolate pieces (1 cup)
1/2 c. finely chopped nuts

Cream together shortening, cheese, and sugars. Add eggs, peel and vanilla; beat well. Stir together flour, baking powder, and salt; add to creamed mixture. Mix well. Stir in chocolate. Drop from teaspoon, 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet. If desired, sprinkle lightly with nuts or granulated sugar. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Makes about 6 dozen.