shanmonster | Cookie Monster

Who'd be game for a cookie exchange? Everyone make a batch, then trade off parts of it? I think it would be pretty ... sweet.

Here's what I'm baking, right this minute:

Ne Plus Ultra Cookies

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar (I use Demerara)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 1/4 cups sifted all-purpose flour (I use whole wheat)
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (I use dark chocolate mixed with semi-sweet)
1 cup raisins (I used dry cranberries)
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans

1. Heat oven to 350. Mix butter and sugars until pale and fluffy. Add vanilla and eggs. Mix until well combined.

2. Sift flour, salt, and baking soda into a medium bowl. Add to butter mixture until just combined. Stir in chocolate, raisins, and pecans.

3. Roll dough into 2 1/2" balls, then flatten to 1 inch thick. Transfer to baking shets. Bake until golden brown (about 20 minutes). Let cool on wire racks.

Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Yields about 1 dozen.