Ultimate M&M's Cookie

1 C. butter or margarine, softened

1/2 C. granulated sugar

1/2 C. firmly packed light brown sugar

1 large egg

1 t. vanilla extract

2 C. all-purpose flour

1/2 t. baking soda

1/8 t. salt

1 12-oz. package M&M's Chocolate Mini Baking Bits

3/4 C. chopped nuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 350°F. In large bowl cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy; beat in egg and vanilla. In medium bowl combine flour, baking soda and salt; blend into creamed mixture. Stir in M&M's Chocolate Mini Baking Bits and nuts, if using.

Drop by heaping tablespoonfuls about 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake 10 to 13 minutes or until edges are lightly browned and centers are still soft. Do not overbake. Cool 1 minute on cookie sheets; cool completely on wire racks.

Store in tightly covered container.

Makes about 3 dozen cookies.