Mint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies: 24 Irresistible Treats

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Mint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint. These cookies are not only soft and chewy but also feature a creamy white chocolate mint ganache filling that adds to their allure. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies promise to impress everyone around the table. With their unique thumbprint design, they are both visually appealing and delicious, making them a must-try in the realm of mint chocolate cookies.

Why You’ll Love This Mint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

There are many reasons to adore these mint chocolate thumbprint treats. First, the combination of rich chocolate and peppermint is a classic pairing that never goes out of style. Second, these cookies are easy to make, even for beginners, thanks to this easy mint chocolate cookie recipe. Third, they offer an impressive presentation for gatherings. Fourth, the creamy ganache filling is a delightful surprise in each bite. Fifth, you can customize them with different toppings or fillings. Finally, they cater to various dietary needs with options for gluten-free mint chocolate thumbprint cookies and vegan mint chocolate thumbprint cookies, making them truly versatile.

Ingredients for Mint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

Gather these items:

2 oz (60g) dark chocolate, coarsely chopped
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
¼ cup (50g) caster/granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 cup (125g) plain/all-purpose flour
½ cup (50g) cocoa powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup granulated sugar, for coating
2 oz (60g) white chocolate, coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons double/heavy cream
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
Green food coloring, optional

How to Make Mint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F/Gas 4) and line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Place the chopped dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Using a handheld or stand mixer, cream the softened butter and ¼ cup sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract and mix until combined. Pour in the melted dark chocolate and mix well.
Step 4: Sift in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then mix to form a smooth, slightly sticky dough.
Step 5: Roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls (about 0.7 oz each). Roll each ball in the granulated sugar to coat, then place them spaced on the prepared baking tray. Use your thumb or the back of a ½ teaspoon measuring spoon to make an indentation in the center of each ball for the filling.
Step 6: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are slightly firm and cracked. If the indentations have puffed up, gently press them back down with the spoon. Let the cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Place the white chocolate and double/heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 20 to 30 seconds. Stir until fully melted and smooth. Mix in the peppermint extract and a drop of green food coloring if desired.
Step 8: Spoon the white chocolate mint ganache into the indentations of the cooled cookies. Refrigerate the cookies for about 30 minutes to allow the filling to set firm. Optionally, drizzle with additional melted chocolate before serving.

Irresistible mint chocolate thumbprint cookies with creamy ganache filling

Pro Tips for the Perfect Mint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
Don’t skip chilling the cookies after adding the ganache; it helps the filling set nicely.
If you want a festive touch, use red or green food coloring in the ganache.
For an added flavor burst, consider adding crushed peppermint candies on top.
These cookies can be made ahead of time and frozen for later enjoyment.

Best Ways to Serve Mint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

These cookies are perfect for sharing during the holidays or at gatherings. Pair them with a warm cup of cocoa or coffee for a delightful treat. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a platter of assorted mint chocolate cookie variations to impress your guests. They also make a wonderful gift when packaged in a decorative box!

How to Store and Reheat Mint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

To store your cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them even longer, freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave-safe dish for about 10-15 seconds, just until warm. This is great for when you want to enjoy that fresh-baked feeling!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Mint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies?

For perfect chocolate mint thumbprint cookies, ensure your dough is not too sticky and that you make a deep enough indentation for the filling. The balance between the chocolate and peppermint flavor is crucial for a delightful taste.

Can I make Mint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just roll and bake when you’re ready. You can also freeze the baked cookies and fill them later for a fresh taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Also, do not overbake the cookies; they should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.

Variations of Mint Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, consider some fun variations on this classic recipe. You can make mint-infused chocolate cookies by adding chopped mint leaves to the dough. For a festive twist, try using different types of chocolate for the ganache, such as dark or milk chocolate. For those with dietary restrictions, there are numerous options for gluten-free mint chocolate thumbprint cookies and vegan mint chocolate thumbprint cookies that maintain the same delicious flavor.