Mexico: Hot Chocolate Cookies

Hot chocolate is a popular drink in Mexico, where it's traditionally made with cinnamon. What I've heard called Mexican hot chocolate also contains chile powder, but I'm not sure how authentic that is. But I like the concept. I was introduced to these cookies at a cookie swap/ competition party a few weeks ago. The baker, Amit, showed up late and therefore didn't get to be included in the judging. But I know these would have won. At least, they won me over. Chocolately, spicy, sweet and a bit salty. I got the recipe, and only altered it by adding some chocolate chips. Thanks, Amit!

Makes 3 dozen

Ingredients:

2 1/4 cups flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 teaspoons cream of tartar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

2 sticks butter, softened

1 1/2 cup sugar

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Additional 1/4 cup sugar

Step 1: Preheat over to 400.

Step 2: Mix flour, cocoa powder, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and chocolate chips together in a bowl.

Step 3: In a separate large bowl, blend butter and 1 1/2 cups sugar with a hand mixer on medium speed.

Step 4: Add eggs and mix on low speed.

Step 5: Continue to mix on low speed and add flour/ chocolate mixture.

Step 6: Mix cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and 1/4 cup sugar in a separate small bowl.

Step 7: Roll cookie dough into balls, and roll in sugar mixture.

Step 8: Place on parchment paper on baking sheets.

Step 9: Bake for ten minutes, or until top begins to crack slightly.

Let cool, and enjoy. 

(Recipe originally from Martha Stewart)