Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip "Monster" Cookies

(1 recipe makes 3 1/2 - 4 dozen cookies)

12 ounces peanut butter
1 stick butter, softened
3 eggs
1 1/4 cups packed light brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp baking soda
4 1/2 cups quick cooking oats
1 cup chocolate chips (I used milk chocolate)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or nonstick baking mats.

In a very large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter & butter and mix well.  Add eggs, dry ingredients & oats, and mix well.  Fold in chocolate chips last.

Drop by tablespoons 2" apart onto prepared cookie sheets.  Bake 10 - 12 minutes.  Do not over bake.  Let stand about 3 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool.  When cool, store in large, resealable plastic bags.

Source:  Adapted from a Paula Deen recipe - http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/monster-cookies-recipe/index.html