Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Allow the mixture to sit while you move on to the next step.

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the mixture, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, working slowly and carefully until a dough forms. To thoroughly incorporate all of the flour, it may be necessary to use your hands towards the end.

Using your hands, roll the dough into small, uniform balls approximately one inch in diameter. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet and gently press down on each cookie to flatten it slightly.

With a small spatula, make four lines across the top of each cookie to create a “football” shape.

Place the baking sheet in the oven and allow the cookies to bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly firm. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Now it’s time to get creative! Using white icing or melted white chocolate, pipe on your desired football designs to really bring the game-day feel to these delicious cookies.