Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

These are one of my little guys' favorite cookies to make and eat. The texture from the oats and the sweetness from the molasses makes these cookies unique. This recipe has been adapted from the Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Recipe from the Food Allergy Mama baking book. I personally like oatmeal raisin, but the boys love chocolate.
Chocolate-Chip Oatmeal Cookies
Makes 3 dozen cookeis

1/2 cup shortening
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup molasses
2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup chocolate chips

In the bowl combine the shortening, sugar, applesauce, and molasses until smooth. In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt with a wire whisk. Add to shortening mixture, and beat well.

Preheat oven to 400ºF, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Stir in oats and chocolate chips with a rubber spatula. Use a cookie scooper to place batter onto prepared baking sheet. Bake 7 to 10 minutes, or until lightly browned. Remove from oven, press down slightly on dough, and let cool completely on baking sheet.

Enjoy!