2 1/4 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. butter, softened
1/4 c. granulated sugar
3/4 c. brown sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 (3 1/2 oz.) pkg. vanilla flavor instant pudding
2 eggs
1 (6 oz.) pkg. semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Combine flour and baking soda; set aside. Combine butter, sugars, vanilla and pudding mix in large mixer bowl; beat until smooth and creamy. Beat in eggs; gradually add flour mixture. Stir in chocolate chips and nuts; batter will be stiff.

Drop by heaping teaspoonsful, about 2 inches apart, onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake at 375 degrees for 9 to 9 1/2 minutes or until browned. Yield: 4 1/2 dozen cookies.

You can make several different types of cookies using this same basic recipe with different flavors of puddings and chips.