1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
¾ cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (3.4-ounce) package vanilla instant pudding
1 (12-ounce) package semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Preheat the oven to 375°. In a medium-size bowl combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl combine the eggs and butter. With an electric mixer beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the granulated and brown sugars, vanilla extract, and vanilla pudding. Mix well. Slowly add the flour mixture. After the dough is well mixed, stir in the chocolate chips and the pecans if using. Drop by the heaping teaspoonful about 2 to 3 inches apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes on the center rack of the oven.
YIELD: ABOUT 3 DOZEN