If you’re looking for a festive treat that perfectly combines rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, these Peppermint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies are just what you need! These delightful cookies feature a soft, chocolate cookie base with a luscious peppermint chocolate filling that makes them perfect for the holiday season.
What makes these cookies so special is their unique thumbprint design filled with a creamy peppermint chocolate ganache, making them not only delicious but also beautifully presented. These Peppermint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, parties, or as a sweet indulgence to enjoy with your favorite holiday drink!
Resume of the Recipe
These Peppermint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies feature a rich chocolate cookie base topped with a creamy peppermint chocolate filling. Ready in about 1 hour (including cooling time), these cookies are a festive delight that will impress anyone!
With straightforward ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up these delicious cookies in no time. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Exciting Story:
The first time I made Peppermint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies, it was during the holiday season, and I wanted to create something that embodied the spirit of Christmas. As I mixed the chocolate dough and prepared the filling, the delightful aroma filled my kitchen, filling me with holiday cheer.
Once baked and filled with the peppermint ganache, the first bite was pure bliss—the rich chocolate paired perfectly with the refreshing peppermint filling! These Peppermint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies have since become a cherished holiday tradition in my home, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Why These Peppermint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies?
- Deliciously Festive: The combination of chocolate and peppermint makes these cookies a perfect holiday treat.
- Beautiful Presentation: The thumbprint design filled with ganache gives these cookies a charming look.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are great for bakers of all levels!
How to Make Peppermint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Create the Thumbprint: Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press down in the center of each cookie to create a well for the filling.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Peppermint Chocolate Filling: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth. Add the peppermint extract and mix well.
- Fill the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled, spoon or pipe the peppermint chocolate filling into the thumbprint of each cookie.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top of the filling for added festive flair. Your Peppermint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies are ready to be enjoyed!
Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies to maintain their soft texture.
Substitutions and Variations
- Different Flavors: You can use white chocolate or dark chocolate for the filling instead of semi-sweet.
- Add Spice: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon into the cookie dough for a warm flavor twist.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar for a healthier option.
Closing
And there you have it! These Peppermint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that will bring joy to anyone who tries them. Don’t forget to let us know how your cookies turn out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more festive delights!
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How long can I store leftovers?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. - Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before filling. - What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping for the filling. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough and filling in advance and bake the cookies just before serving. - How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies should be set at the edges but soft in the center; they will firm up as they cool. - Can I add other flavors?
Yes! A splash of almond extract can create a unique flavor twist in the filling. - What if I want to make it spicier?
Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper in the cookie dough can give it a fun kick! - What sides pair well with these cookies?
Serve with a warm cup of cocoa or spiced tea for a delightful pairing! - How can I make this more festive?
Use seasonal-themed sprinkles or decorations on top for a fun touch! - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature; you can warm them slightly in the microwave if desired. - Can I use flavored extracts?
Yes! You can use different flavored extracts to enhance the flavor of the filling. - How can I enhance the flavors?
Consider drizzling extra melted chocolate over the cookies for an extra treat.
Peppermint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
Course: All Word Recipes4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal0
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
1 cup 1 unsalted butter, softened
1 cup 1 granulated sugar
1 large 1 egg
1 teaspoon 1 vanilla extract
2 cups 2 all-purpose flour
1/2 cup 1/2 unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon 1/2 baking powder
1/4 teaspoon 1/4 salt
For the Peppermint Chocolate Filling:
1 cup 1 semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup 1/2 heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon 1/2 peppermint extract
Crushed peppermint candies for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Create the Thumbprint: Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press down in the center of each cookie to create a well for the filling.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Peppermint Chocolate Filling: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth. Add the peppermint extract and mix well.
- Fill the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled, spoon or pipe the peppermint chocolate filling into the thumbprint of each cookie.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top of the filling for added festive flair. Your Peppermint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies are ready to be enjoyed!
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