Dark Chocolate Pecan Cookies

Now that you've read the title to this recipe, is there any way that I convince you that these would make a semi-healthy after school snack?

Here's my pitch. Chocolate has become practically a health food. It has been touted as having all kinds of health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and helping prevent heart disease. It also reportedly improves cognitive functioning and reduces the incidence of stroke. Some reports claim that it reduces blood sugar and staves off cancer. Here's WebMd's article on the subject, and one from the Cleveland Clinic.




Almost enough to make you want to put down the kale and reach for a piece of chocolate, isn't it?

The recipe also has very little added sugar or butter. Sure, there is some, but if we stick to that adage our mothers taught us, "everything in moderation," it's not too bad.

Still not convinced? Well, then, just go for it. New Years' resolutions were so long ago I can't even remember mine. Besides, if your resolution wasn't "eat more chocolate," it's not too late to change it.

2009: Candied Ginger Scones
2010: Coeur à la Crème
2011: Green Rhubarb Galette
2012: Rhubarb Shortcakes

Dark Chocolate Pecan Cookies

Adapted from Alice Medrich's Chewy Gooey Crispy Crunchy

Makes 2-3 dozen cookies
20 minutes preparation time
30 minutes baking time

8 ounces dark chocolate (with 60% or greater cacao), coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups pecan halves

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Bring a medium-sized stock pot of water to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl over it and add the chocolate and butter. Stir the chocolate and butter occasionally until they have melted together. Set aside to cool.

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla. When the chocolate mixture is cool to the touch, add it to the egg and sugar mixture and stir to combine. Stir in the flour mixture. Add the nuts and mix again until they are evenly distributed.

Scoop out generous tablespoons of dough and arrange them on the cookie sheets about an inch apart. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until the outside of the cookies is dry and begins to crack. Remove from the oven and let cool.

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Comments

[Eva]

I'm going to make this for Ramon! For sure, and naturally for moi!

[Sarah O'Herron]

Don't overlook the importance of feeding your soul! Add that element in and these are clearly health food. Can't wait to try them!