Sugar-Crusted Chocolate Pretzel Cookies

If it is December, it is time to make Christmas cookies. When Mom made these cookies, she put us kids to work shaping the pretzels. Back then, I thought it was fun to shape the pretzels. Now, I recognize that it is time-consuming and tiring.  Mom was just keeping us out of trouble. But, the end result of all the hard word are delicious cookies. Don't let the work deter you.

When I showed these cookies to Ava, Patrick, Lorelei and Delilah, I was met with skepticism. One of the kids even said, "I don't like pretzels." Of course, these are cookies, not pretzels. These cookies were a hit with the kids, especially Delilah. And these cookies will also be a hit with adults. They have a nice subtle chocolate flavor and they are not too sweet. So, the next time that you want to make cookies and also need to keep some kids busy, give these cookies a try. Or, try them out even if you don't have kids to help shape the cookies.

Sugar-Crusted Chocolate Pretzel Cookies 

• 1 3/4 cup flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• 1/8 tsp. salt
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tbsp. dark rum
• 1 tsp. water
• 1/4 cup large crystal sugar

In a bowl, sifter together flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat together butter, sugar, 1 egg and rum until light and fluffy. Stir in dry ingredients and mix well until a soft dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least one hour. Divide into three sections. Work one section at a time while keeping the remaining dough in the refrigerator. If needed, use a little flour on your work surface. Using a level tablespoon of dough, roll into a 15 inch rope with palms on a smooth counter top. Cut into three five-inch pieces. Roll each piece into a seven inch rope, tapering the ends. Twist each rope into a pretzel shape. Repeat with remaining dough. Beat the remaining egg with water in a small bowl. Brush egg over the pretzels. Sprinkle with decorating sugar. Bake at 350 for 12 minutes. Allow to cool. Enjoy!