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MACADAMIA NUT COOKIES

I host a mainland luau every year. These rich cookies—filled with chocolate chips and Hawaiian macadamia nuts—are always a delectable ending to the meal.

—MARY GAYLORD BALSAM LAKE, WI


PREP: 20 MIN. + CHILLING • BAKE: 10 MIN./BATCH • MAKES: ABOUT 6 DOZEN

1 cup butter, softened

3/4 cup sugar

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

2 jars (3 1/2 ounces each) macadamia nuts, chopped

2 cups (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup (6 ounces) white baking chips

1. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla; beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture and beat for 2 minutes. Stir in nuts and chips. Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight.

2. Drop by tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375° for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on pans for 1 minute before removing to wire racks; cool completely.

NOTE Two cups of chopped almonds may be substituted for the macadamia nuts.