Description
Get ready to impress with these Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies – a delicious mix of buttery, soft cookies with rich, silky chocolate centers. This easy recipe is perfect for holidays, gifting, or satisfying your sweet tooth any time of year. Whether you’re looking for quick dessert ideas, a festive party treat, or an easy recipe to whip up on the weekend, these cookies will not disappoint. Customize them with toppings like sprinkles, crushed nuts, or coconut for a batch that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped high-quality chocolate)
2 tablespoons heavy cream (or whole milk)
1/4 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional)
Sprinkles, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, crushed peppermint, cocoa powder (optional toppings)
Instructions
1. Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
2. Add vanilla extract and salt, mix until fully combined.
3. Gradually add flour on low speed until the dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
4. Chill the dough for 30 minutes wrapped in plastic wrap.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Scoop the dough into 1-inch balls, roll smooth, and space on the tray.
7. Press a thumbprint or spoon into each ball to create a center indentation.
8. Bake for 12–14 minutes until lightly golden at the edges. Re-indent if needed while warm.
9. Melt chocolate, cream, and espresso powder in a double boiler or microwave. Stir until smooth.
10. Fill each cookie’s center with chocolate and top with optional decorations. Let set at room temp.
Notes
Always re-press the center indent right after baking to create the perfect dip for the filling.
For a flavor boost, add espresso powder to the chocolate filling — it deepens the richness.
Chill the dough to prevent spreading and keep the cookie shape compact and soft.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: chocolate thumbprint cookies, easy cookie recipe, holiday treats, dessert ideas, thumbprint recipe