"Baking Recipes"

Chocolate Sugar Cookies

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cream of tartar

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

granulated sugar

1. Sift the flour, cocoa, baking soda and cream of tartar together in a medium bowl and with a wire whisk, stir to combine.

2. In a large bowl, using a hand-held mixer at medium speed, beat the butter for 30 seconds, or until creamy.

3. Add the sugar and continue beating for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is light in texture and color.

4. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula.

5. Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat well.

6. At low speed beat in the flour mixture, in two additions, scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition.

7. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate.

8. Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 375 degrees F.

9. On a well-floured surface, roll out half of dough at a time to 1/4-inch thickness.

10. Using a cookie cutter cut into shapes and sprinkle with granulated sugar.

11. Bake on an ungreased baking sheet for 5 to 8 minutes or until lightly browned at edges.

12. Cool.

13. Decorate as desired.