Wild Thing Cookies

Got this recipe out of Todays Parent Magazine Oct 2009.  These chocolate cookies are simple to make and the kids will love decorating them.  They were an instant family favourite and did not hang around long enough to share them at work or daycare - that tells you something!  Cut them out in your favourite shapes.  I got some icing scribblers so it would be easier to decorate but you could use homemade icing as well.

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened Dutch process cocoa powder
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
icing and candies to decorate

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, cinnamon, cloves and salt.  Set aside.

In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy - about 3 to 4 minutes.  Scrape down sides of bowl as required.  Add egg and vanilla, beat well.

On low speed, gradually add flour mixture, beating until just combined.  Divide dough in half, and form each into a disc.  Wrap each disc in plastic wrap and place in fridge to chill until firm - at least 1 hour or overnight.

On a lightly floured surface, roll dough until it is 1/2 in thick.  Using 2 - 3 in cookie cutters, cut out shapes and transfer to a parchment-paper-lined baking sheet, placing them 1 in apart.  Freeze for 10 minutes until firm.

Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350F.  Bake 12-15 minutes, until cookies look dry.  Cool for 5 minutes on baking sheet, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.  Used coloured icing and candies to decorate.  Allow to dry for at least 1 hour before serving.

Makes about 30 cookies.