Chocolate Shortbread Hearts

I'm so excited because today I'm having my meeting with my paranormal group (I know you guys have read this on my profile). Sounds kinda geeky, I know but our group is so much fun. We actually investigate purported haunted places here in the Northwest. Anyhooooo...we haven't met since November because of the holidays so I'm excited to see everyone! We usually bring something to eat to share with the group so today I decided to make these gorgeous babies! Stella also wanted to watch. Can you see her?

Chocolate Shortbread Hearts

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon instant coffee crystals

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 cup butter

Combine flour, brown sugar, cocoa, instant coffee and cinnamon in a bowl and mix to combine. With a pastry blender cut butter into dry mixture until it resembles fine crumbs. Knead dough with hands until it forms a smooth ball. Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thick. Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut dough. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet, 1 inch apart. Re-roll dough as necessary. Bake in preheated 325 degree F oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until edges are set.

Chocolate Frosting:1/2 cup semisweet chocolate pieces1 teaspoon shortening
Combine chocolate and shortening in saucepan and stir over low heat until melted. Dip each cookie in chocolate and place on wax-paper lined cookie sheet. Let stand until chocolate sets.

Happy Baking!