Chocolate Orange Cookies

Chocolate and orange are a fabulous flavor combination any time, but for me they practically sing "Merry Christmas!"  These easy cookies bring the flavor duo together quicker than an elf can snap their fingers. This recipe halves well, so if you need a chocolate cookie fix in a hurry but don't want to risk eating the whole two dozen cookies at once... Oh, and did I mention that they're lactose free?

In a medium bowl, combine

1/2 c. cocoa powder
1 c. sugar
1 c. + 2 Tbsp flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

In a large bowl, combine

1/4 c. light-flavored oil, such as sesame or grapeseed (or canola if that's all you have)
3 drops orange essential oil*
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla

Add the flour mixture into the wet mixture.  Stir until fully combined.  Chill dough for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile...

Preheat oven to 350F. Line 2 cookie sheets with a nonstick baking mat, parchment paper, or grease

When your dough is cold, make 1 Tbsp size balls (about 1 inch diameter).  Roll in powdered sugar.  Space a few inches apart on the cookie sheet, and bake for 12 minutes.  They may look a little soft (or a lot soft) but that's a good thing. 

Let them cool on the cookie sheet for a few minutes, then move to a wire rack to cool fully. 

For a super decadent treat, serve warm from the oven with vanilla ice cream and sprinkles, or with a steaming hot mug of cocoa.

*When cooking with essential oils, always use brands that are labelled as safe for internal use.  Learn more by contacting me or coming to one of my workshops... visit www.meredithcherry.com for details.