Ingredients
To achieve the best results, use high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted Butter:Â Softened to room temperature for a smooth dough.
- Granulated Sugar:Â Adds sweetness and helps with the cookie’s structure.
- Brown Sugar:Â Enhances moisture and provides a deeper flavor.
- Egg Yolk:Â Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
- Vanilla Extract:Â Elevates the overall flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour:Â For structure and texture.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder:Â Intensifies the chocolate flavor.
- Salt:Â Balances the sweetness.
- Dark Chocolate Chips:Â At least 70% cacao for a rich filling.
- Heavy Cream:Â To create a luscious chocolate ganache.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cookie Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Shape and Create Thumbprints
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls (about 1 tablespoon each).
- Place the balls on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press the center of each cookie, creating a small well.
3. Add the Chocolate Filling
- Melt the dark chocolate chips and heavy cream together using a microwave (30-second intervals) or a double boiler. Stir until smooth.
- Spoon a small amount of the chocolate ganache into each cookie’s well.
4. Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Tips for Success
- Chill the Dough:Â Refrigerating the dough helps the cookies keep their shape and prevents spreading.
- Use High-Quality Chocolate:Â Opt for premium dark chocolate for a luxurious filling.
- Avoid Overbaking:Â The cookies should be slightly soft in the center when removed from the oven as they will continue to firm up as they cool.