Maple Pecan Cookies

1 cup shortening
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 cups packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon maple flavoring
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 package (10 to 12 ounces) vanilla or white chips
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Frosting:
1/4 cup butter, softened
4 cups confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon maple flavoring
3 to 5 tablespoons milk
1-1/2 cups pecan halves

In a large mixing bowl, cream the shortening, butter and brown sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla and maple flavoring. Combine flour and baking soda; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Stir in vanilla chips and pecans.

Drop by tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350° for 9-11 minutes or until golden brown. Cool for 2 minutes before removing to wire racks.

In a mixing bowl, cream the butter, confectioners' sugar, maple flavoring and enough milk to achieve spreading consistency. Frost each cookie with 1 teaspoon frosting; top with a pecan half. Makes 7 dozen.