Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprints Recipe

Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprints are the perfect holiday treat, combining rich chocolate cookies with a creamy peppermint filling and a sprinkle of festive crushed candy canes. These bite-sized delights are as beautiful as they are delicious, making them a great choice for cookie swaps, holiday parties, or as a homemade gift.

What Are Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprints?

These cookies feature a tender, chocolatey base with a signature thumbprint indentation filled with a smooth white chocolate peppermint filling. Garnished with crushed candy canes, they offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that capture the spirit of the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive and fun: The crushed candy cane topping makes these cookies visually stunning and perfect for the holidays.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Versatile: Adjust the flavor or filling to suit your preferences.
• Great for gifting: Pack these cookies in decorative tins for a homemade gift everyone will appreciate.

Ingredients

Cookies

• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (50 g) cocoa powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ⅔ cup (135 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Filling

• ½ cup (85 g) white chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) heavy cream
• ¼ tsp peppermint extract
• Crushed candy canes, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Shaping the Cookies

1. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press an indentation into the center of each dough ball.

Baking

1. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. The centers may still look slightly soft, which is perfect.
2. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets before filling.

Preparing the Filling

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth.
2. Stir in the peppermint extract.

Filling and Garnishing

1. Spoon or pipe the white chocolate peppermint filling into the thumbprints of the cooled cookies.
2. Sprinkle the tops with crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
3. Allow the filling to set before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa, peppermint mocha, or a festive holiday tea. They’re also a delightful addition to a holiday dessert platter or as part of a cookie exchange.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Instructions

• Unfilled cookies: Freeze the baked cookies without the filling in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before adding the filling.
• Filled cookies: Freeze filled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
• Dark chocolate filling: Replace the white chocolate with dark or milk chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Minty twist: Add finely chopped peppermint candies directly to the dough for extra minty flavor.
• Vegan option: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free white chocolate, and a flaxseed egg substitute.

FAQs

Can I use a different extract instead of peppermint?

Yes, you can substitute the peppermint extract with vanilla, almond, or orange extract for a different flavor profile.

How can I make the filling firmer?

Add an additional tablespoon of white chocolate chips to create a thicker filling that sets more firmly.

What’s the best way to crush candy canes?

Place the candy canes in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin for easy cleanup.

Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprints are an irresistible combination of rich chocolate, creamy peppermint filling, and a festive candy cane topping. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy holiday moment, these cookies are sure to delight. Try them today and share your experience with family and friends—happy baking!

Print