Name: Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 0.5 cup granulated sugar; 0.25 cup brown sugar 1 large egg yolk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 0.5 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder; 0.25 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon milk; 0.75 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 3 tablespoons heavy cream

If you’re craving something irresistibly chocolatey with a playful twist, Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies are just what you need. These little beauties have a rich, chewy cocoa base with a smooth chocolate ganache nestled in the center, making them both elegant and comforting. Perfect for cookie swaps, after-dinner treats, or simply cozying up with a cup of coffee, these thumbprints deliver pure joy in every bite.

The best part? They’re a breeze to make and even easier to customize. You can top them with sea salt, chopped nuts, or festive sprinkles depending on the season. Whether you’re baking for a holiday or just feeding a chocolate craving, these cookies bring the wow factor without the stress.

Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

Chocolate lovers will adore the deep cocoa flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture of these cookies. They’re soft yet structured, with a ganache center that adds decadence without being overly sweet. They store beautifully, making them great for prepping ahead or sharing in a cookie box. Plus, they’re kid-friendly and totally crowd-pleasing.

What Kind of Cocoa Should I Use?

To get the richest, deepest chocolate flavor, unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder works best. It gives these cookies their signature dark hue and smooth finish. Natural cocoa powder can be used in a pinch, but the flavor will be a bit more tangy and less intense. For the ganache, high-quality chocolate chips or chopped bars melt beautifully and create a glossy center.

Ingredients for the Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

These ingredients are easy to find but when brought together, they deliver a luxurious cookie experience. Make sure your butter is soft and your cocoa is high quality for the best texture and flavor.

Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Egg yolk
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Dutch-process cocoa powder
Salt
Milk
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (for ganache)
Heavy cream (for ganache)

How To Make the Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This builds the base of the cookie dough.

Step 2: Add the Egg Yolk and Vanilla

Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract. The yolk gives richness and helps the dough bind perfectly.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk the flour, Dutch-process cocoa powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Shape and Chill

Scoop the dough into small balls, roll them smooth, and chill them for about 30 minutes. This keeps the cookies from spreading too much.

Step 5: Create the Thumbprints

Using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon, gently press an indent into each dough ball. Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F for 9-11 minutes until set.

Step 6: Prepare the Ganache

While the cookies cool, heat heavy cream until just simmering and pour over the chocolate chips. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.

Step 7: Fill and Set

Spoon the ganache into each cookie’s center and let set at room temperature until firm or refrigerate for quicker results.

How to Serve and Store Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

These cookies are best served slightly chilled or at room temperature so the ganache has a silky texture. They make excellent additions to dessert platters, cookie exchanges, or festive holiday tins.

Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies will keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just bring to room temperature before serving.

This batch yields about 20 cookies, making it ideal for small gatherings or weekly snacking.

What to Serve With Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies?

Hot Coffee

The deep cocoa notes pair beautifully with a freshly brewed cup of coffee.

Cold Milk

A classic combo that never fails to hit the spot, especially for kids.

Peppermint Tea

A cooling contrast to the rich chocolate, perfect for wintertime sipping.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Turn your cookies into a decadent dessert by sandwiching them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Fresh Berries

The tartness of raspberries or strawberries brings balance and color.

Hazelnut Liqueur

If you’re feeling fancy, a small glass of Frangelico complements the chocolate ganache like a dream.

Salted Nuts

Offer some roasted almonds or pecans on the side for added crunch and contrast.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luscious finishing touch.

If you love these Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies, you’ll definitely want to explore these other crave-worthy treats:

Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies for a soft-baked peanuty delight.
Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons for a tropical twist.
Ooey Gooey Bars if you’re all about melty, sticky indulgence.
Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars to satisfy your sweet tooth and clean out your pantry.
Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a fruity, creamy contrast to your cookie tray.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use dark or milk chocolate in the ganache? Did you sprinkle sea salt on top or go with festive sprinkles?

I love hearing how others make these cookies their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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