Introduction
Get ready to indulge in these insanely delicious Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies without eggs! These bite-sized treats are perfect for any chocolate lover, boasting a rich and fudgy texture that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
- For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips, melted
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: approx. 30 minutes plus cooling time
- Yield: approximately 24 cookies
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Roll small balls of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one.
5. Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to press a small indent into the center of each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove from the oven and, if needed, gently re-press the indent while the cookies are still warm. Let them cool on the baking sheets.
7. For the filling, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer and pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes before stirring until smooth and glossy.
8. Carefully spoon the chocolate ganache into the indents of each cooled cookie. Let them sit until the filling sets, about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Information
Each cookie (approx.): Calories: 110 | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 7g
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Shape the Cookies
Roll small balls of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one.
Create Indents
Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to press a small indent into the center of each cookie.
Bake the Cookies
Bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove from the oven and, if needed, gently re-press the indent while the cookies are still warm. Let them cool on the baking sheets.
Prepare the Filling
For the filling, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer and pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes before stirring until smooth and glossy.
Fill the Cookies
Carefully spoon the chocolate ganache into the indents of each cooled cookie. Let them sit until the filling sets, about 30 minutes.
Notes
Butter Consistency
Ensure that the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
Dough Consistency
The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too sticky, you can chill it in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes before shaping.
Chocolate Filling Options
Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips (semi-sweet, dark, or milk chocolate) for the filling based on your preference.
Storage
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Cook techniques
Creaming Butter and Sugar
This technique involves beating softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the batter, helping to give the cookies a light texture.
Whisking Dry Ingredients
Combining flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a separate bowl ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients. This step prevents clumps and helps achieve a consistent dough.
Forming the Indent
Using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to create an indent in each cookie allows space for the chocolate filling. This should be done gently but firmly to maintain the cookie’s structure.
Baking Technique
Baking at the right temperature and time is crucial. Keeping an eye on the cookies in the last few minutes helps to avoid overbaking, which can lead to dry cookies.
Making Chocolate Ganache
Pouring hot cream over chocolate chips and letting it sit allows the chocolate to melt properly. Stirring until smooth ensures a glossy and rich filling.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter. Just adjust the additional salt in the recipe accordingly.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for optimal freshness.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.
What are some variations I can try?
You can experiment by adding nuts, different flavored chocolate, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the ganache.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that anyone can enjoy, showcasing the perfect blend of chocolate flavor and a fudgy texture. They are simple to make and offer room for creativity with variations. Enjoy your baking adventure!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Peanut Butter Blossoms
These cookies feature a similar thumbprint concept but use peanut butter cookies with a chocolate kiss on top.
Caramel Stuffed Cookies
Swap the chocolate filling with a gooey caramel filling for a different flavor profile.
Nutella Thumbprints
Use Nutella instead of chocolate ganache for a hazelnut twist on the classic recipe.
Matcha Cookies
Incorporate matcha powder into your cookie dough for a vibrant green color and an earthy flavor.
Chocolate Chip Shortbread
Prepare a simple shortbread base with chocolate chips for a buttery complement to the thumbprint idea.
