A batch of Gov. Bobby Jindal’s favorite freshly baked chocolate chip cookies is always on hand. Aside from the first family, every student who visits the mansion on a field trip gets to partake of the gooey goodness. “Those cookies make a big impression,” says assistant mansion coordinator Bobbie Johnson. “Every kid loves to get his own cookie that’s still warm from the oven.” The recipe, though delicious, is no state secret—every citizen can exercise his right to bake it at home.

Bobby Jindal’s Favorite Cookies

You’ll need:

1/2 cup shortening
1/2 stick butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 tsp. baking soda
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3 cups semisweet chocolate pieces, milk chocolate pieces or white baking pieces
1 1/2 cups walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, beat shortening and butter on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add sugars and baking soda. Beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Beat in eggs and vanilla until combined. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. With a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour. Stir in chocolate pieces and, if desired, nuts. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Transfer to wire racks and let cool. Makes about 60 cookies.