– In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy.

– This can be done using an electric mixer or by hand with a sturdy spatula.

– Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

– Stir in the vanilla extract for a delightful aroma.

– In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

– This step ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

– Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

– Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.

– Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

– Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld together and firms it up for easy shaping.

– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

– Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into small portions.

– Roll each portion into a ball and then shape it into a football using your hands.

– Place the formed football cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

– Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly firm.

– Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

– Dust the tops of the cookies with cocoa powder to mimic the appearance of a football.