I find myself always craving a bit of chocolate in the afternoons, as it goes rather nicely with a hot cup of coffee and the hour of stillness I have while my son is in quiet time. Some days just a little square will do, but other times something more extravagant is needed. I have found these chocolate sugar cookies to do just the trick; they are soft and delicious without being overly rich and sweet. They are a perfect afternoon indulgence.

Ingredients

• 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 2 ½ sticks unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 cups sugar, plus more for rolling (1/2 cup)
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla

Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350. Line 3 half sheet pans with parchment paper. Put ½ cup sugar in a small bowl and set aside.

Step 2
Whisk the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt together in a medium bowl.

Step 3
Using a standing mixer, cream the butter and 2 cups sugar together until light and fluffy, 3-5 minutes. Add the eggs and vanilla, and beat to combine. Add the flour mixture and mix on low until completely combined.

Step 4
Shape the cookie dough into 24 balls, and roll each ball in the set-aside sugar. Place cookies on the prepared sheet pans (8 can fit on each) and bake for 11-13 minutes, until the edges have set and the centers are puffed and starting to crackle. Remove from the oven and move the pan to a wire rack, letting the cookies cool.

Enjoy!