Oatmeal Refrigerator 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

Instructions

1. 1

   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.

2. 2

   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.

3. 3

   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.

4. 4

   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.