From: Dave A.
1/2 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 large eggs
1 c. applesauce
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
2 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
1 (12 oz.) bag chocolate chips (I like semi-sweet)
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, cream together shortening and sugar; add the eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition. Mix in the applesauce and vanilla. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, salt, baking powder, baking soda and cocoa powder. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined.
Stir in the chocolate chips (I like to add half now and then save the other half to press on top of the dough balls before baking). Drop about 1 1/2 Tablespoons of cookie dough, per cookie, onto a greased baking sheet or use a cookie scoop. Bake for 10 minutes. Cool cookies on wire rack. Makes around 30-36 cookies.