Chocolate thumbprint cookies are the perfect blend of chewy, rich dark chocolate and creamy, luxurious ganache. Their soft centers and glossy finish make them one of the most decadent holiday cookies you can bake. Each bite delivers a bold chocolate flavor balanced with smooth sweetness. These cookies look beautiful on any dessert table and make thoughtful edible gifts during the holiday season.
Why These Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies Are So Irresistible
These cookies stand out because of their melt-in-your-mouth texture. The dough features Dutch-process cocoa, which creates deep color and a smoother chocolate taste. The thumbprint in the center holds luscious ganache made from chocolate chips and warm cream. The combination feels indulgent but remains easy enough for any skill level.
The ganache firms slightly as it cools, creating a truffle-like center. A sprinkle of nonpareils adds festive flair and a touch of crunch. These cookies bake quickly and come together with simple ingredients, making them a reliable choice for last-minute holiday baking.
Perfect for Holidays, Parties, and Chocolate Lovers
Chocolate thumbprints shine on cookie platters because they look elegant without requiring complicated steps. They stay soft for days and pack well for gifting. Their rich chocolate flavor satisfies anyone who prefers deeper, more sophisticated desserts. Serve them with cocoa, coffee, or milk for a cozy holiday treat.
Tips for Baking the Best Thumbprint Cookies
Use room-temperature butter for a smooth dough. Make the indent right after rolling the dough to keep the shape clean. If the dough feels too soft, chill it briefly before shaping. Let the ganache set before storing to prevent smudging. Keep cookies in an airtight container for maximum freshness.
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Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies: Deep, Rich, and Filled With Silky Ganache
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 20 cookies 1x
Description
Rich, chewy dark chocolate thumbprint cookies filled with silky chocolate ganache and topped with festive nonpareils.
Ingredients
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated white sugar
2 egg yolks
1 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
Nonpareils, for topping
Instructions
1. Cream softened butter with brown sugar and white sugar until smooth.
2. Add egg yolks and vanilla, then mix until combined.
3. Whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
4. Blend dry ingredients into the wet ingredients to form a soft dough.
5. Roll dough into balls and place them on a lined cookie sheet.
6. Press a thumbprint or spoon into the center of each dough ball.
7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.
8. Warm heavy cream until steaming, then pour over chocolate chips.
9. Let sit for one minute, then stir into a smooth ganache.
10. Fill each cookie indentation with warm ganache.
11. Top with nonpareils and let the ganache set before serving.
Notes
Chill dough briefly if it becomes too soft for shaping.
Use a small rounded spoon for perfect thumbprints.
Allow ganache to fully set for clean storage.
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 13
- Sodium: 60
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 2
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 17
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 30
Keywords: chocolate thumbprint cookies, ganache cookies, Christmas cookies, holiday baking