Cocoa Cookies Recipe

Cocoa Cookies Recipe:

History:
Cocoa cookies have been enjoyed as a delightful treat for many years. Originating from a combination of traditional cookie recipes and the addition of cocoa powder, these cookies offer a rich and indulgent flavor. The use of cocoa in baking can be traced back to the ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations, who revered cocoa beans for their valuable properties. Over time, cocoa powder became more widely available and was incorporated into various baked goods, including cookies. Today, cocoa cookies are a beloved classic enjoyed by people of all ages.

Fun Fact:
Did you know that cocoa powder is made by grinding roasted cocoa beans after they have been separated from their outer shells? The result is a fine powder that adds a deep chocolaty flavor to cookies, cakes, and other delightful desserts.

Now, let's dive into the recipe:

Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup shortening
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or grated rind of 1 lemon
- 4 cups flour
- 3 teaspoons Dr. Price's Baking Powder
- Sugar for sprinkling
- Raisins or pieces of walnuts for decoration

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to a hot temperature.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and sugar until well combined and fluffy.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add milk to the beaten eggs and beat again until well combined.

4. Slowly add the egg mixture to the creamed shortening and sugar, mixing continuously.

5. Add the grated nutmeg and your choice of vanilla extract or grated lemon rind for a burst of flavor.

6. In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of flour and the Dr. Price's Baking Powder.

7. Gradually add the sifted flour mixture into the creamed mixture, stirring until well incorporated.

8. Add enough more flour to make a stiff dough. The dough should be easy to handle and roll out.

9. On a floured board, roll out the cookie dough very thin.

10. Using your favorite cookie cutter, cut out shapes from the dough. This is a great opportunity to engage children in the baking process, as they can choose their favorite cookie cutter shapes.

11. Sprinkle sugar over the cookies for a touch of sweetness.

12. For an extra special touch, place a raisin or a piece of walnut in the center of each cookie.

13. Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

14. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until they are golden brown.

15. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

16. Enjoy these delicious cocoa cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoy making cocoa cookies, you might also like to explore other cocoa-based dessert recipes. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Chocolate Brownies: These fudgy and rich chocolate treats are perfect for chocolate lovers. They are made with cocoa powder and chocolate chunks, resulting in a decadent indulgence.

2. Chocolate Truffles: These bite-sized treats are made by combining melted chocolate with cream and rolling them into small balls. Dusted with cocoa powder, they make for an elegant and delicious dessert.

3. Chocolate Cake: A classic dessert loved by many, chocolate cake is a moist and fluffy delight. Made with cocoa powder, it is often frosted with chocolate ganache or buttercream for an extra layer of richness.

Remember to experiment with these recipes by adding your own personal touch and variations to make them uniquely yours.