Double Chocolate Chipotle Cookies

When we think of Cinco de Mayo recipes we typically think, margaritas, fish tacos, salsa, guacamole...I think you see where I'm going with this.   Dessert isn't typically even on the radar for this holiday. But I think a little sugar and spice will make everything nice...
Smoky chipotle chili powder gives these decadent double chocolate cookies a little sweet heat, but not too much, just the right amount.   A super sweet ending for Cinco de Mayo.  And I think they are a perfect accompaniment to that margarita!

Recipe developed for Baker's Joy

Photography by Paul Gelsobello Studio

Food stylist: Catherine Paulkner

Prop stylist: Heather Bean

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Makes: 52 cookies

1 can Baker's Joy non-stick spray with flour

2-1/2 cups flour

1/2 cup cocoa powder

1 tsp. chipotle chili powder

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. baking powder

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp. vanilla extract

4 cups chocolate chips (use a combination: semi-sweet, chunks, milk, and dark)

Preheat oven to 375˚F. Spray 2 large baking sheets with Baker's Joy spray.

Combine flour, cocoa powder, chipotle chili powder, baking soda, salt and baking powder; set aside.  Beat butter and sugars with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.  Beat in eggs and vanilla until smooth.  Gradually add flour mixture and beat just until combined.  Stir in chocolate chips.

Drop dough by rounded tablespoons onto prepared baking sheet.

Bake 8 to 10 minutes until edges are set.  Leave cookies on cookie sheet 1 to 2 minutes.  Remove cookies and cool on wire rack.

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The secret to perfect cookies (and most baked goods) is in not overworking the dough.  So once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, that's it - stop mixing.  You're ready to make the cookies!

When cookies are done, let them rest for a minute or 2 on the baking sheet.  If you try to remove them too quickly, they'll be soft and may break when you're transferring them to the cooling rack.