Try this twist on chocolate chip cookies with a hint of spicy cayenne pepper.

Spicy Hot Chocolate Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup toasted pine nuts

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs and vanilla. Beat until smooth and light.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda and cayenne pepper. Gradually mix in to wet ingredients. Beat until just combined and smooth.
4. Fold in chocolate chips and nuts until combined. Scoop cookies into 2-inch balls and place on cookie sheets.
5. Bake on the lower rack of the oven until lightly golden, about 10 minutes.
6. Remove from cookie sheet while hot and cool on a wire rack.

Makes 36 cookies.