Death by Chocolate Cookies

Source: Daisy King - cookbook author

2 (12 ounce) packages semisweet baking chocolate, divided
3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
2 cups chopped pecans

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Coarsely chop 8 squares of the chocolate; set aside.

Microwave remaining 8 squares of chocolate in large glass bowl on HIGH for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir until chocolate is melted and smooth. Stir in sugar, butter, eggs and vanilla extract. Stir in flour and baking powder. Mix in reserved chopped chocolate and nuts. Drop by rounded tablespoonsful onto ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until cookies are puffed and feel set to the touch. Cool on cookie sheet 1 minute. Transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

Yield: 1 1/2 dozen cookies