Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Since it is officially Christmas break and I have access to a kitchen, I baked my favorite cookies. Though these oatmeal chocolate chip cookies are not necessarily Christmas-themed, they are delicious at every time of the year.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
• 1 ¼ cups packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups quick or old-fashioned oats
• 2 cups chocolate chips (I like dark, but milk, semi-sweet, and white also work)
• 1 cup coarsely chopped nuts or dried fruit (optional)

Directions:
Combine flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat brown sugar, butter and granulated sugar in large mixer bowl until creamy. Beat in eggs, milk and vanilla. Gradually stir in flour mixture. Add oats, chocolate chips, and nuts/dried fruit, if desired.

Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake in preheated 375 degree oven for 9 to 10 minutes for chewy cookies or 12 to 13 minutes for crispy cookies.

Let stand for 1 minute; remove to wire rack to cool completely.
Makes about 4 dozen cookies.