1 c. shortening
1 c. firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 c. granulated sugar
2 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs
2 1/4 c. sifted all purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 1/2 c. M&M'S® plain chocolate candies

Blend shortening and brown and granulated sugars in a large bow. Beat in vanilla and eggs. Sift remaining dry ingredients together; add to sugar-egg mixture, blending well. Stir in 1/2 cup of candies (reserve remaining candies for decorating).

Drop from teaspoon on ungreased cookie sheet, decorate tops with remaining candies. Bake at 375 degrees for 10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove cookies with spatula to wire racks; cool completely. After baking, some candies may be slightly cracked. This adds texture and interest to cookies - still the same delightful flavor.