2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 to 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
2/3 cup butter or shortening
2 cups brown sugar
2 eggs, beaten
2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 to 1 pkg. chocolate chips (6 oz.)

Sift flour and measure; add baking powder, soda and salt. Sift again. Add nuts. Mix well.

Melt butter or shortening in saucepan or microwave. Remove from heat. Mix in sugar (add 2 tablespoons hot water if vegetable shortening is used). Cool; stir in eggs and vanilla. Add flour mixture, small amount at a time.

Spread in greased and floured 13x9-inch sheet cake pan. Sprinkle chocolate chips over top.

Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Cool in pan; cut into 15 bars.