4 (1 oz.) sq. unsweetened chocolate
1 c. butter
1/4 tsp. butter extract
1 1/2 c. chopped pecans
1 c. all-purpose flour
1 3/4 c. sugar
4 eggs, beaten
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Powdered sugar (optional)
Chocolate chips (optional)

Melt chocolate and butter over low heat in a medium saucepan. Add butter extract and chopped pecans and stir well. Remove from heat and set mixture aside.

Combine flour, sugar, eggs and vanilla in a large mixing bowl; add chocolate mixture and stir until moistened. Add chocolate chips if desired. Spoon 3 tablespoons batter each into paper-lined muffin pans. Bake at 325 degrees for 30-35 minutes until cupcakes test done. Cool in pan 10 minutes; remove to wire rack to cool completely. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired. Yield: 1 1/2 dozen cupcakes.