Chilli Chocolate Cookies

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

   Tip: For easy cookie removal, make sure the paper is large enough.

2. 2

   In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cocoa powder.

   Tip: Ensure the dry ingredients are well combined.

3. 3

   In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.

   Tip: Don't overmix the butter and sugar mixture.

4. 4

   Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

   Tip: Be careful not to overbeat the mixture.

5. 5

   Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.

   Tip: Make sure the chocolate is smooth and glossy.

6. 6

   Add the melted chocolate to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined.

   Tip: Don't forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

7. 7

   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

   Tip: Be careful not to overmix the dough.

8. 8

   Stir in the chilli flakes and chopped walnuts.

   Tip: The heat from the chilli will mellow out during baking.

9. 9

   Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking tray, leaving 5cm of space between each cookie.

   Tip: Leave enough space for the cookies to spread during baking.

10. 10

    Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centres are slightly soft.

    Tip: Don't overbake the cookies, as they can become too hard.

11. 11

    Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

    Tip: This will help the cookies set and become crisper.