Oatmeal Refrigerator Cookies

These cookies have an old fashioned flavor with the zest of orange. After cookies are cooled and in containers, place a slice of fresh bread in also to keep the cookies soft and fresh.

Original recipe makes 4 dozen cookies

Ingredients

1 cup shortening
1 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tablespoon grated orange zest
3 tablespoons molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups rolled oats

PREP

15 mins
COOK

13 mins
READY IN

28 mins

Directions

In a large bowl, cream together the shortening, white sugar and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the orange zest, molasses and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; stir into the molasses mixture until well blended. Mix in oats.
Divide the dough into halves, and shape into long logs about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap in waxed paper, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Slice chilled dough into rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Place 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake for 11 to 13 minutes in the preheated oven, until the bottoms are lightly browned. Cool on the baking pan for a minute before removing to wire racks to cool completely.