Chocolate Cookies

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 tsp 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
decorating gel

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, and 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 inch thick.  Using 2 to 3 in cookie cutters, cut out shapes and transfer to a parchment paper lined baking sheet placing them 1 in apart.  Freeze for 10 min until firm.

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

Makes about 30 cookies.