Enjoy a steaming cup of latte with these mocha flavored cookies studded with milk chocolate chips.

Mocha Chip Cookies

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons unsweetened baking cocoa

1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar

1/2 cup vegetable shortening

1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 large egg

1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee granules dissolved in 1 1/2 teaspoons water

1 cup milk chocolate chips

2/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Additional sugar for rolling

1. In a medium bowl whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cocoa and cream of tartar; set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer at medium speed, cream the shortening, butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. Add egg, beating well, add coffee/water mixture and blend well. Stir in flour mixture until just blended. Fold in chocolate chips and pecans until blended. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Shape dough into 1-inch balls; roll in additional sugar. Place 2-inches apart onto greased baking sheets. Press with fork to flatten.
5. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Makes about 5 dozen.