2 c. sifted all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. soft shortening
1 c. granulated sugar
1 egg yolk
1/2 c. buttermilk or sour milk
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 egg white

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Sift flour, soda, salt. Mix shortening, sugar, and egg yolk until very light and fluffy. Mix in flour mixture alternately with buttermilk; then mix in vanilla. Fold in egg white, beaten stiff. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls, 3 inches apart, onto greased cookie sheet.

With spatula, flatten until 1/2 inch thick. If desired, sprinkle with sugar mixed with chopped nuts, raisins, or grated lemon rind. Bake 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Makes 1 1/2 dozen.