What is the best ingredient in a chocolate chip cookie?

I was baking cookies with my kids this weekend and every time we do they always ask, "What is the most important ingredient?"  When I tell them love, they say no, it is using Crisco instead of butter :-)  (I have taught them well).  I learned from my mother-in-law that Crisco makes the cookies softer, chewier and last longer.  Cookies do not last long in my house though!  Here is the recipe for yummy chocolate chip cookies:

Ingredients (Recipe on the Toll House package)

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened  Use 1 cup of Crisco instead
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups (12-oz. pkg.) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels (I like to use half chocolate chips and half butterscotch)
• 1 cup chopped nuts (I usually use walnuts)

Directions

PREHEAT oven to 375° F.

COMBINE flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in morsels and nuts. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.

BAKE for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Another happy customer...  (P.S. The best ingredient for me is making cookies with my babies :) )