Jolene's Recipe Journal

My great aunt used to make these and when she passed away, the recipe was lost. I found this on the internet about 10 years ago, and it was very close.  I haven't made them in a while since my guys have nut allergies, but my dad asked for them this year. After looking at similar recipes I figured out the missing ingredient is the black pepper.  It gives the cookies a little depth and heat.  I also recommend grating the other spices fresh, it makes a big difference.  Making these brings back lots of good memories for me!  Italian Chocolate Totos Print With Image Without Image Ingredients For the dough: 3 cups all-purpose flour 4 teaspoons baking powder 3/4 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon allspice 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/2 black pepper 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 2 sticks butter -- softened 1/3 cup milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup chopped walnuts For Chocolate Frosting: 2oz unsweetened chocolate 1 tablespoon butter -- softened 1 teaspoon vanilla extract