If you’re looking to make some chocolate-flavored cookies at home, these Melting in Your Mouth Chocolate Thumbprint Cookie With Mint Caramel Magic are easy to make. The step-by-step process is explained in simple terms. Even if you’re a beginner, this recipe will help you master them.
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Melting-in-your-mouth chocolate thumbprint cookies with mint and caramel magic:
If you’re looking for thick, soft cookies with a mint or caramel center, these chocolate thumbprint cookies are sure to become your new favorite. They’re perfect for holiday baking, cookie swaps, or weekend treats. These cookies feature a deep chocolate base, finished with a deliciously creamy center. This recipe gives you a bakery-style feel at home.
So let’s make melt-in-your-mouth chocolate thumbprint cookies, Mint and Caramel Magic, that are soft on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside, melt in your mouth quickly, and have a rich flavor.
What are Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies?
Chocolate thumbprint cookies are a classic shortbread-style cookie made with a generous amount of cocoa powder and flour. Before serving, they are pressed into the center with a spoon or thumb to give them a better shape. They are filled with a sweet filling, such as mint, caramel, ganache, or jam.
In this article, you can learn how to make two types of cookies:
Caramel Thumbprint and Mint Chocolate Thumbprint
Caramel Thumbprint: A buttery, gooey caramel crust with a deep cocoa flavor and a rich, crunchy finish.
Mint Chocolate Thumbprint: A rich, and creamy center with a hint of icing.
Melt-in-your-Mouth Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies with Mint and Caramel Magic Recipe:
- Step-by-Step Preparation Time: Approximately 20 minutes
- Cooling Time: 18 to 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 10 to 12 minutes
- Filling and Cooling Time: 18 to 20 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour to 10 minutes
All ingredients needed:
Chocolate cookie ingredients, for the base:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk, save the white for later
- 1 cup softened butter, 2 sticks unsalted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Optional ingredients, for the rolling coating:
- 1/2 can finely chopped nuts (almonds or pecans) or granulated sugar
Ingredients for the caramel center:
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 20 soft caramels
- Sea salt, for topping
Mint center ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed peppermint candy or Andes mint slivers, optional for garnish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. First, make the dough. Preparing the Base
- Use a large mixing bowl. Beat the sugar and butter until fluffy. Use an electric mixer for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add the egg yolks, then the vanilla extract, and mix thoroughly. Everything should be well combined.
- Use another bowl to sift the cocoa powder, flour, and salt.
- Slowly add all the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until the dough forms a smooth consistency.
- If your dough is softer, refrigerate it for 30 to 35 minutes for a better shape.
2. Shaping the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F, 175°C. Use two baking sheets and line both with parchment paper.
- Use your hands to roll out the dough into 1-inch circles.
- Optional – For a richer, more texture, you can coat each dough ball with granulated sugar or chopped nuts.
- Now, place the dough balls 2 inches apart on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Now, use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press down on the center of each dough ball to create a small depression that will hold your filling.
3. Baking the Cookies
- Bake in a preheated oven for 11 to 13 minutes. The edges should be firm, but the center should still be slightly soft.
- After removing your cookies from the oven, immediately press a depression into the center with the handle of a spoon, as cookies puff up slightly after baking.
- If you’re adding any filling, place the cookies on a wire rack to cool completely before adding the filling.
4. Making the Caramel Filling
- Use a saucepan and, over low heat, cook the caramel with the heavy cream, stirring constantly until it’s cooked and smooth.
- Carefully pour half a teaspoon of the hot caramel into the center of each cookie.
- You can sprinkle sea salt on top as desired.
- Be sure to let the caramel set for 10 to 12 minutes before serving or storing, as this will enhance the flavor.
5. Making the Mint Chocolate Filling –
- Now, add heavy cream or chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 20-22 second intervals, stirring constantly to ensure it becomes smooth.
- Add peppermint extract to add shine and continue mixing. Be sure to sprinkle it lightly over all the cookies and let it cool slightly.
- For a festive touch, you can garnish them with crushed peppermint candy or Andes mint shavings, which create a wonderful and classic Christmas look.
- Your melt-in-your-mouth chocolate thumbprint cookies with mint and caramel magic are ready. Now, cool and serve and enjoy.
6. Cool and serve
- Let cool until the center is firm to the touch. Use warm Coke or milk to serve and enjoy the delicious combination of a soft cookie base and creamy filling.
- Variations and tips for chocolate thumbprint cookies:
- For crispiness, first coat the dough in chopped pecans or hazelnuts and then bake.
- For double chocolate, skip the caramel or mint filling in the center; instead, use chocolate ganache.
- For holiday vibes, use white chocolate and peppermint in every color for Christmas-themed cookies.
- To store: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 4 to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to two months for longer shelf life.
Why this homemade recipe is a favorite:
- It’s very easy to make, making it perfect for beginners.
- This recipe is very convenient because you can choose between a caramel or mint filling.
- It’s visually stunning, giving it a bakery-like quality.
- This recipe is perfect for parties, holidays, and as a gift.
Storage and Making Ahead Tips:
- Refrigerating the Dough – Prepare the cookie dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days.
- Refrigerating the Baked Cookies – Fill the cookies first, then cool them, then freeze them in layers and store them in an airtight bag.
- Thawing – It’s important to thaw them before serving. To enjoy them, keep them at room temperature and let them rest for 15 to 20 minutes.
Some pro tips for perfect chocolate thumbprint cookies:
- To make the cookies – The dough must be chilled, as chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much and keeps them firm.
- Push them down once after baking – Always make sure to create a depression in the center after baking for a classic, full look and a neat finish.
- Use quality cocoa – This provides a very deep color and rich flavor.
- Decorate once softened – Add toppings like mint flakes, sea salt, or nuts before your bran hardens.
Serving tips for chocolate thumbprint cookies:
- Serve them on a Christmas cookie plate with sugar cookies and ginger snaps for a stunning look and taste.
- Wrap them in a cellophane bag to gift to friends.
- If you’d like to enjoy vanilla ice cream as a dessert, the warm caramel melts beautifully into the center.
Nutrition, Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies (per cookie)
- 160 calories
- 20 grams carbohydrates
- 13 grams sugar
- 9 grams fat
- 2 grams protein
FAQ, Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
Q. Can they be filled after storage?
Yes! Bake the cookies without filling first, then warm them slightly before adding the filling.
Q. Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes! Almost all children love candy pressed into the thumbprints.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate thumbprint cookies (Hallongrotta) with a caramel or mint center and buttery Coke are a wonderful combination, along with a creamy filling that offers rich flavor and texture. Whether you prefer the cool refreshment of mint, the warm sweetness of caramel, or simply want to be satisfied with every bite, these melt-in-your-mouth chocolate thumbprint cookies with mint and caramel magic are perfect for everyone.
Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or just when you have a chocolate craving.