Step 1

Combine flour, baking soda, salt and 1/2 cup cocoa powder. Beat Neufchatel, butter, 1-1/2 cups sugar and vanilla in large bowl with mixer until blended. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing well after each addition. Add nuts; mix well. Refrigerate 1 hour.

Step 2

Heat oven to 350ºF. Shape dough into 1-1/4-inch balls; place, 1 inch apart, on baking sheets.

Step 3

Bake 15 to 18 min. or just until edges are firm. Cool on baking sheets 1 min. Remove to wire racks; cool completely.

Step 4

Dip tops of cookies, 1 at a time, in remaining sugar; sprinkle with remaining cocoa powder.