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Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

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3.9 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies combine rich cocoa-flavored dough with a luscious chocolate ganache center topped with sweet maraschino cherries. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want an elegant yet simple treat. The cookies have a soft, buttery texture with a deep chocolate flavor, complemented by the festive burst of cherries in the middle.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

  • ½ cup butter (softened)
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg (room temperature)
  • 2 Tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Chocolate Ganache & Filling

  • ¾ cup dark chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 Tablespoon butter
  • 24 to 30 stemless maraschino cherries (drained and patted dry)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Make the Dough Base: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer at medium speed, beat the softened butter until fluffy. Slowly add the granulated sugar, scraping down the bowl as needed for even blending. Incorporate the egg, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and smooth.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, beating until the dough is fully combined and smooth.
  4. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up, which helps in handling and improves texture during baking.
  5. Form the Cookies: Using a small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon), portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space the dough balls about 1 inch apart to allow for spreading.
  6. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 13 minutes. They should be set but still soft when removed.
  7. Create Thumbprints: Immediately after baking, gently press the back of a teaspoon into the center of each cookie to create an indentation for the filling. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet to set their shape.
  8. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: Place the dark chocolate chips, heavy cream, and butter into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until the mixture is smooth and fully melted, forming a glossy ganache.
  9. Fill and Assemble: Spoon a small amount of the warm chocolate ganache into each indentation in the cookies. Quickly place a stemless maraschino cherry on top of the chocolate before it sets to create a beautiful finishing touch.
  10. Set and Serve: Allow the chocolate to completely set before serving, ensuring the filling is firm yet creamy.

Notes

  • For best results, use room temperature egg and softened butter to ensure smooth mixing.
  • Ensure maraschino cherries are well-drained and patted dry to avoid soggy cookies.
  • If you don’t have a cookie scoop, use a tablespoon measure to portion dough evenly.
  • Chocolate ganache can be made ahead and gently reheated if needed.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://sarabaking.com/chocolate-cherry-thumbprint-cookies-recipe/