WHITE CHOCOLATE NUT CRACKLES

My aunt and I would bake together when I was growing up, and we had a similar recipe for a white cookie. After some experimenting, I added the macadamia nuts and white chocolate chips. My family and co-workers rave over these treats.

—JOYCE GETHING PAMPA, TX


PREP: 25 MIN. + CHILLING • BAKE: 10 MIN./BATCH • MAKES:1/2 DOZEN

1/2 cup butter, softened

1/2 cup shortening

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cream of tartar

1/2 teaspoon salt

6 ounces white baking chocolate, coarsely chopped

1/2 cup coarsely chopped macadamia nuts, toasted

Additional sugar

1. In a large bowl, cream the butter, shortening and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in chocolate and nuts. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until easy to handle.

2. Roll into 1-in. balls. Dip each ball halfway in water, then in sugar. Place sugar side up 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets; flatten slightly.

3. Bake at 400° for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool.