RECIPE OF THE WEEK: Dan Volz's Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies

In memory of Dan Volz, the Volz family wants to share their tradition of cookie day. Make, enjoy, and share cookies on Dan's birthday, April 23 - which is Local Cookie Day. It has been three and a half years since Dan passed away; his family remembers him on this day by making cookies and invites you to join them in making your own to enjoy and share.

Many people in Whitehall received Dan's cookies over the years. He enjoyed experimenting with recipes until each was mastered. Baking cookies was always a favorite hobby of his, even as far back as college. There, he baked cookies in a toaster oven to entice people (girls) to his dorm with the lovely smells.

His trademark Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe is provided, but making any favorite cookie will do. You'll notice it makes 5 dozen; it's meant to be shared. Dan loved the joy that freshly baked cookies could bring. He experimented to perfect several recipes, including the one here.

Dan was an active community member in Whitehall, helping others in many ways, like lawn care, snow removal, carpet cleaning, coaching soccer, delivering cookies, and talking to anyone who wanted to talk. He is missed dearly, but his compassion and love for our community live on.

INGREDIENTS: (Makes 5 Dozen)

3 sticks butter, room temp

2 tsp salt

2 tsp vanilla

2 cups brown sugar

1 cup white sugar

4 eggs

4 ½ cups flour

2 tsp hot water

2 tsp baking soda

3 cups +/- semi-sweet choc. chips

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat oven to 375° F.

In a stand mixer (or in a large bowl), cream the butter.

Add salt, vanilla, and both sugars. Beat well, then add eggs and mix.

Add 2 cups of flour and mix.

Dissolve soda in the hot water and add to the mix, then add the rest of the flour and chips.

Place evenly sized scoops on a cookie sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes. Do not over-bake.