Double Chocolate Drops

Directions

1. 1
   Place 1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips in small microwave-safe bowl.
2. 2
   Microwave on HIGH, stirring once, until melted and smooth (1 to 1-1/2 minutes).
3. 3
   Set aside.
4. 4
   Combine melted butter, sugar, eggs and vanilla in large bowl.
5. 5
   Beat at medium speed until smooth.
6. 6
   Add melted chocolate, continue beating until smooth.
7. 7
   Reduce speed to low; add all remaining cookie ingredients.
8. 8
   Beat until well mixed.
9. 9
   Cover, refrigerate until firm (2 hours or overnight).
10. 10
    Heat oven to 350 degrees f. Drop dough by teaspoonfuls, 2 inches apart, onto greased cookie sheets.
11. 11
    Bake for 8-9 minutes or until just set.
12. 12
    Cool 2 minutes; remove from cookie sheets and let cool completely.
13. 13
    (Chill dough between baking batches for easier handling.)
14. 14
    Frosting:.
15. 15
    Place 1 cup mini chocolate chips and shortening in small microwave-safe bowl.
16. 16
    Microwave on HIGH, stirring once, until melted and smooth (1-2 minutes).
17. 17
    Frost cooled cookies.
18. 18
    Sprinkle with chopped almonds if desired.