Johnson Cookies

I love cookies! But sometimes I am not in the mood to wait for 3-5 sheets of cookies to bake - that's when these bar cookies come into mind. They are almost like chocolate chip cookies (which are one of my favorites). The thing that really sets them apart from a traditional chocolate chip cookie bar is that they are made with brown sugar (instead of brown and white). The brown sugar gives the cookies a gooey caramely touch that is so irresistible, if you don't believe me, try them. You won't be able to just have one or two.

Oh, and if you are wondering where they get their name, here is the story: My maternal grandmother used to live in Virginia and was friends with one of the cooks in the White House when President Lyndon B. Johnson was president of the United States. These were his favorite cookies, so I guess they got named after him. I think they are probably one of my favorites too - he must have good taste.

Johnson Cookies
from Rosella B.

1 1/4 sticks (not cups) butter, melted
2 cups brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup pecans, chopped (optional)
Sprinkles to garnish (optional)

In mixing bowl cream together, butter, brown sugar, eggs and vanilla (about 2 minutes). Add remaining dry ingredients (except nuts, chocolate chips and sprinkles). Mix until incorporated (stir in nuts here if you are using them). Spread mixture into a greased 9 x 13 inch pan. Sprinkle with chocolate chips and sprinkles.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes.

Let them cool before cutting and servings (they are pretty gooey and melty if you don't wait).