Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies

	TOTAL TIME: 40 min Prep: 20 min Inactive Prep: ... Cook: 20 min YIELD: 3 dozen LEVEL: Easy
INGREDIENTS
10 ounces bacon 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon baking powder Pinch cayenne pepper 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature 1 cup packed dark brown sugar 3/4 cup granulated sugar 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 2 large eggs 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment or silicone baking mats. Cut the bacon into 1/2-inch pieces. Cook in a large skillet until golden and crispy, 6 to 8 minutes. Remove to drain on paper towels, reserving the fat. Strain the fat (to remove the bacon bits) and chill in the fridge until set. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, baking powder and cayenne in a small bowl. With an electric mixer, beat the butter, chilled bacon fat, sugars and vanilla until light and fluffy. Add the eggs 1 at a time, beating well after each egg. Slowly add the flour mixture and stir to combine. Stir in the bacon and chocolate chunks. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto the baking sheets, leaving 3 inches between each one. Bake until set, 8 to 12 minutes.