Brownie Cut-Out Cookies

4 ounces semisweet baking chocolate
2 1/3 cups flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 pound unsalted butter
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla
2 eggs
1 tablespoon milk
3/4 cup chopped walnuts

Melt chocolate over hot (but not boiling) water in a double boiler; set aside to cool slightly.

In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking soda and baking powder; set aside.

In a separate bowl, cream butter. Slowly add sugar and vanilla; beating well. Stir in eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the cooled chocolate; blend well.

Stir in dry ingredients and milk in alternating additions; fold in walnuts.

Cover and refrigerate dough for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375�F. Lightly grease a baking sheet; set aside.

Roll chilled dough out, cut into rounds or other shapes.

Place on baking sheet 2-inches apart. Bake 6 to 8 minutes. Cool completed on wire rack.