Master Chocolate Crackles

Directions

1. 1
   In the top of a double boiler, melt the chocolate over barely simmering water.
2. 2
   Remove from the hot water and stir in the vanilla.
3. 3
   Set aside.
4. 4
   In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together, then beat until fluffy.
5. 5
   Add the eggs and beat well.
6. 6
   Add the chocolate mixture and beat until well blended.
7. 7
   Combine the flour, baking powder and salt.
8. 8
   Add to the batter, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing after each addition only enough to bend the ingredients.
9. 9
   Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
10. 10
    Preheat the oven to 350F (180C).
11. 11
    Lightly grease cookie sheets.
12. 12
    Spread the powdered sugar on a plate.
13. 13
    Shape heaping teaspoonfuls of dough into balls.
14. 14
    Roll the balls in the powdered sugar then place them 1 1/2 inches apart on the cookie sheets.
15. 15
    Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies are puffed and crackled.