Cocoa Snowflakes

Directions

1. 1
   Sift flour, baking powder, and salt, set aside.
2. 2
   In a small heavy saucepan, melt butter over low heat, add cocoa powder, blend until smooth.
3. 3
   Remove pan from heat, stir in sugar until combined (mixture will be dark brown at this point).
4. 4
   Transfer to mixing bowl, add vanilla, then eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition.
5. 5
   Add flour mixture, then nuts if desired, mix well.
6. 6
   Cover dough, chill (at least 2 hours in refrigerator).
7. 7
   Dough will still be sticky.
8. 8
   Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
9. 9
   Roll dough into 3/4 inch balls, roll each ball in powdered sugar.
10. 10
    Place onto greased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart.
11. 11
    Bake at 400 degrees for 8 minutes, let cool a minute before removing from pan.
12. 12
    Store in airtight container.
13. 13
    Texture should be soft and chewy, cook a minute longer if you would prefer a crispier cookie (make sure bottoms do not burn).