Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles

Well, Alex pulled out of the driveway approximately 45 minutes ago, so I guess I can make a blog post now. I took a blog hiatus (blogatus?) for the duration of his stay, but rest assured, the Winfreys kept busy. There were donuts eaten, elaborate meals prepared, horror films watched, art exhibits visited, and, oh yeah, Alex and I participated in a craft show. We made candy, Alex printed out fancypants labels, and then we basked in the glow of the adoring public. It was a trippy experience, for sure. Actually, I think probably like 35 people in total showed up to that craft show, but we still made some coin, so it was worth it.
Here's the best recipe. It's from Paula Deen (natch) and, I am serious, it will greatly improve the quality of your life, if only you let it.


Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles

1/2 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
1 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
1 12 oz. bag semisweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening

Beat butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer at medium speed until creamy. Beat in milk and vanilla. Gradually add flour, mixing well. Add mini chocolate chips (and nuts, if desired). Shape into 1-inch balls. Place on wax paper and chill for 2 hours.

Melt chocolate with vegetable shortening according to package directions. Dip in cookie balls, covering completely. Place on wax paper and chill to set. Keep truffles refrigerated. Makes approximately 5 dozen.