We tried a few new cookie recipes at Christmas this year and found two that we really liked.  This one was a favorite with everyone who tried them. It sort of takes a second - you take a bite and think "that's good" then about one second later everyone, without fail, said some variation of "Oh my gosh! Those are SO good!"  These will become a staple in this house for sure.

Chocolate Orange Cookies

2 C flour

2/3 C cocoa powder

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp baking soda

1 C (2 sticks) butter, softened 

1 C granulated sugar

2/3 C firmly packed brown sugar 

2 eggs

1 tsp Orange extract 

6 oz chocolate chips

Heat oven to 350 degrees.  Mix flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt; set aside.  Beat butter and sugars in large bowl with mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.  Add eggs and extract; mix well.  Gradually beat in the flour mixture on low until well mixed.  Stir in chocolate chips.  

Line cookie sheets with parchment paper (or spray with non-stick cooking spray).  Drop by rounded tablespoons about 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. 

Bake 8-10 minutes or just until cookies are set.  Cool on baking sheets 2 minutes.  Remove to wire racks to cool completely. 

Try not to eat them all.  

Altered slightly from McCormick