Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies

Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies

Yield: 3 to 4 dozen
Time: 30 minutes

• 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup hazelnuts, ground
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar

1. Preheat oven to 325° F. Lightly grease 2 baking sheets.
2. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from the heat.
3. Combine the flour and salt.
4. In a large bowl, cream the vegetable shortening and sugar. Beat in the melted chocolate. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
5. Drop the dough by spoonfuls 1 1/2 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheets. Flatten the cookies with the back of a spoon dipped in powdered sugar.
6. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until firm to the touch. Transfer to wire racks to cool.