Love and Kisses Cookies

Ingredients:

• 340 g semi-sweet chocolate granules
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 110 g salted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups premium flour
• 0.5 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 2 cups red sprinkles
• 48 milk chocolate candies, such as Hershey's Kisses®

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 175°C. Line 2 baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper.
2. Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring, until melted. Let cool.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, butter, and cooled chocolate on medium speed until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition, then add the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and continue mixing on medium speed until combined.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the mixer bowl and knead the dough.
5. Place red sprinkles in a bowl. Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough into each bowl. Roll into balls and roll each ball in sprinkles to coat completely. Place on prepared baking sheets. Bake until set, about 10 minutes. While still warm, press a chocolate candy onto the top of each ball.
6. Let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Repeat with the remaining dough, topping, and chocolate candies.