Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
  • 1/3 cup hot water
  • 6 tablespoons shortening
  • 6 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1-1/2 cups packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 teaspoons grated orange zest
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups quick-cooking oats
  • 1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips

Method

  • In a small bowl, soak cherries in hot water for at least 10 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, in a large bowl, cream the shortening, butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, orange zest and vanilla. Combine the oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in the chocolate chips and cherries with liquid.
  • Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased
  • . Bake at 350° for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool for 1 minute before removing from pans to wire racks.