Chocolate-Dipped Cookies

1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil.

2. Combine the chocolate chips and the shortening in a large microwave-safe bowl, and microwave until melted, stirring after every minute.

3. Finely crush 3 or 4 cookies and set them aside to use for decoration.

4. Drop a cookie in the melted chocolate and submerge it slightly. Use a fork to remove it from the chocolate, and tap it against the side of the bowl to remove excess chocolate. Drag the bottom of the fork against the lip of the bowl to remove any remaining excess chocolate, and place the dipped cookie on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the cookie with the cookie crumbs immediately, while the chocolate is still wet. You can also use sprinkles or small candies, or leave the cookies plain and decorate with white chocolate later. Repeat with remaining chocolate and cookies.

5. Place the cookies in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set the chocolate.

6. If desired, melt the white chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for a decorative look. Briefly return the candy to the refrigerator to set the white chocolate before serving.