If you’re a chocolate enthusiast, these rich and chewy chocolate thumbprint cookies are a dream come true! With a fudgy dark chocolate cookie base and a luxurious chocolate ganache center, these cookies are an indulgent treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special event, or just because, these cookies are sure to satisfy any chocolate craving!
*Ingredients:*
For the Chocolate Cookies:
– 1 1/2 cups (188 g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (40 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup (165 g) packed light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
– 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
– 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
For the Chocolate Ganache:
– 1 cup (200 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
– Optional: nonpareils or sprinkles for decoration
*Instructions:*
1️⃣ *Prepare the Cookies:*
– Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Set aside.
– In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together for about 2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
– Add in the egg yolks and vanilla, mixing until the dough becomes pale and fluffy (around 1-2 minutes).
– Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
– Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough for each cookie and roll it into a ball. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets.
– Use a 1/4 teaspoon to gently press an indent into the center of each dough ball.
– Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
2️⃣ *Bake the Cookies:*
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Arrange the chilled dough balls about 1 1/2 inches apart on the baking sheets.
– Bake for 9-11 minutes (around 10 minutes works best). If the indentations have lost their shape, use the 1/4 teaspoon to gently press them back down.
– Once baked, let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
3️⃣ *Prepare the Ganache:*
– Place the chocolate chips in a small bowl.
– Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it’s nearly boiling, then pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for about 1 minute, then stir until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
4️⃣ *Assemble the Cookies:*
– Once the cookies have cooled, use a teaspoon to fill each indentation with the rich, velvety ganache.
– Optionally, sprinkle with nonpareils or other decorative sprinkles for a fun touch.
*Enjoy your indulgent, chocolatey creations! These cookies are perfect for gifting, sharing, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or milk.*
*Tags:* #ChocolateCookies #ThumbprintCookies #BakingRecipes #ChocolateLovers #DessertRecipes #CookieTime #Ganache #HomemadeCookies #BakingDelights #SweetTreats #HolidayBaking
