serious chocolate goodness

My sister and brother are heading to a meeting this evening and need to bring A DESSERT. I volunteered my services. These are seriously awesome cookies. They are rich and decadent, and perfect for Christmas parties, chocolate junkies and when you need to impress that special someone (or bribe them, whichever). I mean, like, YUM.

Fudge Crackle Cookies

INGREDIENTS

1 c. all-purpose flour

1 tsp. baking powder

¼ tsp. salt

¼ c. butter or margarine

1 c. plus 3 Tbsp. sugar

3 squares (1 oz. each) unsweetened chocolate – OR heaping ¼ cup unsweetened powdered chocolate + 3 Tbsp. vegetable oil

2 eggs

1 tsp. vanilla

¾ c. chopped nuts (I used walnuts…’cause that’s what I put in real fudge)

DIRECTIONS

Mix flour, baking powder and salt in large bowl. Set aside. In saucepan, stir butter and chocolate (or butter, oil and chocolate) over low heat until melted and smooth. When cool, stir in 1 cup sugar, eggs, vanilla and nuts; mix until blended. Add chocolate mixture to flour mixture, stir until blended. Cover and chill 1 ½ to 2 hours until firm (or flash cool in freezer for 30 minutes). Preheat oven to 300˚F. Roll into 1-inch balls; then roll in extra sugar. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheet, and bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until tops are crackled and slightly firm to touch.