Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper.
Whisk the flour, salt, cinnamon and baking soda together in a bowl.
Cream the shortening and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, then beat in the eggs one at a time. Add the Nutella and beat until smooth, scraping bowl often.
Stir in the flour mixture to make a soft dough. Add chocolate chips (if using)
Scoop heaping tablespoons or medium size scoops of dough 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake one sheet at a time for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned and the cookies are just set.
Immediately transfer the cookies from the pan to racks to cool. Repeat with the remaining dough.