1/2 c. shortening
2 tsp. vanilla
2 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
6 tbsp. cocoa plus 2 tbsp. butter
1/2 c. chopped nuts (optional)
1 2/3 c. sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp. baking powder
1/3 c. milk

Cream shortening, butter, sugar and vanilla. Beat in eggs. Sift together flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt. Add dry ingredients alternately with milk. Add nuts. Chill 3 hours. Form into 1 inch balls; roll in confectioners sugar. Place on greased cookie sheet 2 to 3 inches apart. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Cool slightly and remove from pan. Makes 4 dozen.