If you have a soft spot for the perfect balance of rich chocolate and refreshing mint, then this Chocolate Mint Thumbprint Cookies Recipe will quickly become your new go-to treat. These cookies boast a tender, cocoa-infused base with a luscious minty white chocolate filling that melts in your mouth. They’re delightful, easy to make, and have all the charm of a homemade cookie that feels fancy enough for any occasion yet cozy enough for a Sunday afternoon snack. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be reaching for them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chocolate Mint Thumbprint Cookies Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, each playing a vital role in building that perfect combination of texture and flavor. From the rich cocoa powder that deepens the cookie’s chocolate notes to the crème de menthe baking chips that bring a burst of minty freshness, these components come together simply but powerfully.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookie, providing structure and tenderness when measured carefully.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor and a gorgeous dark color to make these cookies stand out.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the cocoa bitterness perfectly.
- Unsalted butter: Room temperature butter ensures a smooth dough and delightful richness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps create that crisp yet chewy cookie texture.
- Egg yolk: Adds moisture and a slight richness for a tender crumb inside.
- Whole milk: Helps the dough come together smoothly and keeps the cookies soft.
- Pure vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth, complementing both chocolate and mint flavors.
- Crème de Menthe baking chips: Finely chopped to melt and distribute refreshing mint flavor throughout the filling.
- Finely chopped white chocolate: Creates a creamy, sweet counterpoint to the dark chocolate cookie.
- Unsalted butter (for filling): Adds richness to the filling, making it silky and smooth.
- Heavy cream: Blends everything together in the filling for a luscious consistency.
- Crème de Menthe liqueur or flavoring: The secret ingredient to take the filling’s mint flavor to the next level.
How to Make Chocolate Mint Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and kosher salt in a bowl to ensure even distribution. In a separate large bowl, cream the unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy; this step is crucial as it traps air, helping the cookies rise just right. Then, beat in the egg yolk, whole milk, and vanilla extract until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding carefully until you have a smooth dough that’s well mixed but not overworked. Chill the dough briefly if it feels too soft to handle easily.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out a tablespoon of dough for each cookie and gently roll it into a ball. Place the dough balls onto the sheet, leaving enough space for spreading. Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, press an indentation into the center of each ball – this is where the delicious filling will live. Bake the cookies until firm to the touch but still tender, usually around 12 minutes. Let them cool completely before adding the filling to keep their shape intact.
Step 3: Make and Fill with Mint Chocolate Filling
For the filling, gently melt the finely chopped white chocolate with the chopped unsalted butter over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently so it becomes smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and crème de menthe liqueur or flavoring for that unmistakable minty kick. Once the cookies have cooled, spoon or pipe the creamy filling into each thumbprint well. Allow the filling to set slightly at room temperature or chill them for a firmer finish.
How to Serve Chocolate Mint Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies are stunning on their own, but adding a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies or a light dusting of cocoa powder can elevate their visual appeal and add a pleasant textural contrast. A tiny fresh mint leaf on top of the filling can also add a fresh aroma and elegant look.
Side Dishes
Serve these Chocolate Mint Thumbprint Cookies alongside a cold glass of milk or a steaming cup of your favorite coffee or peppermint tea. The creamy warmth of the beverage perfectly complements the rich chocolate and cooling mint inside the cookies.
Creative Ways to Present
For gift-giving or parties, arrange these cookies on a decorative platter lined with doilies or edible glitter to add a touch of festivity. You can also stack them in cellophane bags tied with a green ribbon for a charming, homemade present that will surely impress anyone with a sweet tooth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Chocolate Mint Thumbprint Cookies Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps the cookies soft while preserving the creamy filling perfectly.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies later, you can freeze them after baking but before adding the filling. Freeze them in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. When ready, thaw completely and prepare the filling fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
Warm your cookies briefly in a low oven or microwave just until the edges soften slightly—avoid overheating, as this might melt the filling too much. Enjoy warm for a gooey, indulgent treat that tastes freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought mint chocolate chips instead of Crème de Menthe baking chips?
Absolutely! If you can’t find Crème de Menthe baking chips, regular mint chocolate chips work just fine. Just chop them finely so they melt and distribute well in the filling for that signature minty burst.
What’s the best way to prevent the cookie dough from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough before baking helps it hold its shape better. Also, make sure your butter is at room temperature but not too soft, as overly soft butter can cause excessive spreading.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free or vegan?
With a few substitutions like vegan butter, plant-based milk, and dairy-free white chocolate alternatives, these cookies can be adapted to be vegan or dairy-free. Just keep in mind this might slightly alter texture and flavor.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay delicious for about 4 days, which is usually just enough time to enjoy every last one!
Is there a way to intensify the mint flavor?
Yes, adding a little more crème de menthe liqueur or flavoring to the filling will deepen the mint flavor. Just be careful not to add too much liquid, or it might affect the consistency of the filling.
Final Thoughts
Making this Chocolate Mint Thumbprint Cookies Recipe is such a joyful experience because the results truly taste like a special indulgence you’d want to share with everyone you love. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, a casual treat, or a gift straight from your kitchen, these cookies hit all the right notes with their bold chocolate, refreshing mint, and melt-in-your-mouth filling. Don’t hesitate—grab those ingredients, and bring a little chocolate-mint magic into your home today!
Print
Chocolate Mint Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes plus 30 minutes chilling time
- Yield: 30 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightfully rich and refreshing, these Chocolate Mint Thumbprint Cookies feature a tender cocoa-infused cookie base filled with a creamy mixture of white chocolate, butter, cream, and Crème de Menthe liqueur. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you crave a decadent chocolate and mint treat.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (120 grams)
- â…“ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (28 grams)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (113 grams, room temperature, 1 stick)
- â…” cup granulated sugar (133 grams)
- 1 egg yolk (14 grams, room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons whole milk (28 grams, room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams)
Filling
- 10 ounces Crème de Menthe baking chips (283 grams, finely chopped, 1 package)
- 1 cup finely chopped white chocolate (170 grams)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (14 grams, chopped)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (57 grams)
- 1 tablespoon Crème de Menthe liqueur (12 grams or ¼ teaspoon Crème de Menthe candy & baking flavoring)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a medium bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and kosher salt. In a separate large bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolk, whole milk, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie, being careful not to press through the dough completely.
- Prepare the Filling and Bake: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the finely chopped Crème de Menthe baking chips, white chocolate, unsalted butter, and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and melted. Remove from heat and stir in the Crème de Menthe liqueur or candy flavoring. Spoon or pipe the filling into each thumbprint indentation. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until set but not browned. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the Crème de Menthe liqueur with Crème de Menthe candy & baking flavoring.
- Chilling the dough makes it easier to shape and prevents spreading during baking.
- Use fine chopping techniques to ensure the baking chips and white chocolate melt smoothly.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
