2011 Cookie Challenge: Cookie #2 - Black Forest Cookies

Black Forest Cookies

1 (11.5-ounce) package milk chocolate morsels, divided use

1/2 c packed brown sugar

1/4 c butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

3/4 c all-purpose flour

1/4 tsp baking powder

1 (6-ounce) package Ocean Spray® Craisins® Cherry Flavor Sweetened Dried Cranberries

1 c pecans or walnuts, coarsely chopped

1.              Preheat oven to 350º F.

2.   Pour 3/4 cup morsels into an uncovered large microwave-safe bowl. Set remaining morsels aside. Microwave morsels on high in 30 second increments until creamy (stir occasionally, do not over heat/cook it will ruin the chocolate). Stir until chocolate is smooth.

3.   Stir in brown sugar, butter, eggs and vanilla. Add flour and baking powder, mixing until thoroughly combined. Stir in remaining morsels, cherry flavor sweetened dried cranberries and nuts.

4.   Chill dough for approximate 15-20 minutes.

5.   Drop by tablespoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake for 12 minutes or until cookies are puffed and set to the touch. For a firmer cookie bake for 14 minutes. Cool on cookie sheet for 2 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.

Makes about 2 1/2 dozen cookies.