Chocolate Crackle Cookies

This is not the first crackle cookie I have posted here but I guarantee it's the spiciest!  Is spiciest even a word?  Try these cookies, I'll call Mr. Webster.

12oz. semi sweet baking chocolate, divided
3/4 C. flour
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. ancho chile pepper (or cayenne)
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 C. butter, softened
1/2 C. granulated sugar
1/4 C. firmly packed brown sugar
2 eggs, slightly beaten
2 tsp. vanilla


Melt 8oz. of the chocolate as directed on the package.  Set aside.  Coarsely chop the remaining 4oz. of chocolate.  Mix flour, cinnamon, chile pepper, baking powder, and salt in a small bowl.

Beat butter and sugars in a large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.  Add eggs and vanilla, mix well.  Add melted chocolate, beat until well blended.  Gradually beat in flour mixture on low speed until well mixed.  Stir in chopped chocolate.  Drop dough by rounded tablespoons 1 1/2 inches apart on parchment paper lined baking sheets.

Bake in a preheated 375 degree oven about 10 minutes or just until cookies are set and slightly cracked on top.  Transfer cookies on parchment paper to wire rack, cool completely.