CHOCOLATE CUT OUT SUGAR COOKIES

These Easy Chocolate Cut Out Sugar Cookies hold their shape and have great chocolatey, buttery flavor that is perfect with either royal icing or a regular buttercream frosting.  Great for Halloween, Valentine's Day, or anytime!

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the butter on medium speed using the paddle attachment for 1 minute until creamy and smooth.  Add the sugar and beat for 2 to 3 minutes, until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla on high speed, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt, then add to the wet ingredients and mix together on low speed until combined.
4. Divide the dough in half and shape into discs.  Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 2 days.  
5. Full instructions visit @houseofnasheats