© Original Recipe By The Cozy Crumb ©
Chewy Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies 🍪🍫✨
1. Introduction
If you’re a lover of decadent chocolate cookies, then these chewy chocolate thumbprint cookies are an absolute treat! Combining a fudgy dessert texture with the charm of thumbprint cookies, this recipe offers a delightful experience for any sweet tooth. Perfect for holidays, parties, or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking collection.
2. Ingredients for Delicious Chocolate Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra fudge)
- 3/4 cup fruit preserves or chocolate ganache for thumbprints
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Thumbprint Cookies
Preparing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. If desired, fold in chocolate chips for an extra fudgy dessert.
Forming the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them onto a lined baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
Adding the Filling
Fill each thumbprint with your choice of fruit preserves or chocolate ganache. This creates a luscious, fudgy center that complements the chewy texture of the cookie dough.
Baking to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and slightly cracked. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Storage Tips for Freshness and Flavor
Once cooled, store these chocolate cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a zip-top bag, separated by parchment paper, for up to a month. To revive their chewy texture, briefly warm in the oven or microwave before serving.
5. Serving Suggestions for an Impressive Dessert
These thumbprint cookies are perfect on their own, but for an elevated experience, pair them with a glass of festive spiced margarita or a cup of rich coffee. Serve them on a platter alongside an elegant cheese board for a show-stopping dessert spread. The combination of flavors is sure to impress guests and satisfy any sweet craving.
6. FAQs About Chewy Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
Can I use store-bought jam instead of homemade ganache?
Absolutely! Fruit preserves or jam from the store works perfectly. Just use a high-quality or seedless variety for smooth, luscious centers.
Are these cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?
These chocolate cookies are not gluten-free by default, but you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make them suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
How long do these cookies take to prepare?
The entire process, from mixing to baking, typically takes around 30-40 minutes, making it an easy and quick treat to whip up.
Can I freeze the raw dough?
Yes. You can freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for quick baking and reheating, with precise temperature control, this versatile air fryer makes baking cookies effortless and efficient.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – This durable cookware set ensures even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies every time.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – An all-in-one appliance to bake, grill, and air fry your favorite recipes with ease.
8. Conclusion
These chewy chocolate thumbprint cookies combine a fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth center with a tender, chewy cookie exterior. Their stunning presentation and irresistible flavor make them suitable for any occasion—from casual gatherings to holiday celebrations. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delightful treat that will wow your friends and family. Happy baking!
PrintChewy Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
These chewy chocolate thumbprint cookies are a rich, fudgy treat that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The glossy chocolate centers contrast beautifully with the crisp, fudgy exterior, making each bite irresistibly delightful.
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- Hershey’s kisses or chocolate filling for thumbprints
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips or chopped chocolate.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form dough balls and place on prepared baking sheets.
- Press a thumbprint into the center of each cookie and fill with chocolate filling or place a Hershey’s kiss on top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers are soft.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For an extra fudge flavor, add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate centers before baking.
- Ensure butter is softened for easy mixing.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150 Kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg