Peppermint Fudge Thumbprint Cookies are a festive treat that combines a rich chocolate filling with a refreshing minty flavor. With a soft, buttery cookie base, these peppermint cookies are easy to make and share.
The secret to these chocolate thumbprint cookies is the use of crushed candy canes, which not only enhance the cookie’s festive appearance but also provide a burst of minty freshness. The creamy chocolate filling complements the cookie perfectly, creating a treat that captures the essence of the holiday season.
A Simple Festive Treat- Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies
Our recipe for Peppermint Fudge Thumbprint Cookies offers a delightful combination of flavors perfect for the holiday season. The blend of mint and chocolate creates a festive cookie loved by all!
Making these cookies requires simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and egg yolks, along with the essential components for the fudge filling. With just a few key steps, anyone can create these tempting treats that is sure to impress your friends and family.
These thumbprint cookies not only taste amazing but also look festive on any holiday cookie platter. They are a wonderful addition to any celebration, combining traditional flavors with a unique presentation!
Why you’ll love this Festive Thumbprint Cookie Recipe
- Amazing taste & texture: The buttery cookie dough is enhanced by the refreshing taste of mint extract, bringing a delightful surprise to each bite. Crushed candy canes add a pop of color and a crunchy texture, elevating the overall experience.
- Simple steps. The preparation is straightforward. With simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and egg yolks, it’s accessible for bakers of all levels. Plus, decorating with additional crushed candy canes allows for creativity.
- Great for many occasions: These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them an excellent option for festive platters or gifts.
Peppermint Thumbprint Cookie Ingredients
Butter: Use ¾ cups of butter for the cookie dough (margarine is not recommended as it could cause cookies to spread during baking).
Granulated Sugar: Add in ½ cup of granulated sugar to the cookie dough, plus a little extra is needed to roll the dough balls in.
Egg Yolks: 2 egg yolks to act as the binder for this cookie dough.
Flour: Use 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour.
Crushed Candy Canes: ¼ cup of crushed peppermint candy (plus extra for topping) adds some color and bursts of flavor in every bite.
Mint Extract: Add ½ teaspoon of mint extract for a deliciously minty cookie.
Fudge Filling
Heavy Whipping Cream: ½ cup of heavy whipping cream will help to smooth filling.
Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips: You need 6-ounces (about half a bag) of semi sweet chocolate chips.
Butter: Add in 1 tablespoon of butter.
How to Make Peppermint Fudge Filled Thumbprint Cookies
Prep
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper, then set them aside. Also crush the peppermint candies in a ziplocked bag, using a rolling pin or meat tenderizer.
Dough
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar. Beat in the egg yolks and then add the flour. Add the crushed peppermint candies and the mint extract, stir to combine.
Roll the dough out into 1-inch sized balls, then roll each ball in granulated sugar. Place the cookie dough on the prepared baking sheets 2 inches apart. Use the back of a teaspoon measuring spoon to create a small well in the center of each dough ball.
Bake
Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a rack to cool completely. If needed, use the teaspoon to press the center of each cookie again to form the well before the cookies cool.
Fudge Filling
Combine the heavy cream, butter, and chocolate chips in a small saucepan. Stir over low heat until the mixture has melted and then let it cool.
Once the fudge has cooled and thickened, use your teaspoon measure to scoop the fudge and fill the well in each cookie. Top with a sprinkle of peppermint candies.
Serve and enjoy!
Peppermint Fudge Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients
Chocolate Fudge Filling
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 6 oz semi sweet chocolate chips
- 1 TBSP butter
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper, then set them aside.
- Crush the peppermint candies in a ziplocked bag, using a rolling pin or meat tenderizer.
- Dough: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar. Beat in the egg yolks and then add the flour.
- Add the crushed peppermint candies and the mint extract, stir to combine.
- Roll the dough out into 1-inch sized balls, then roll each ball in granulated sugar. Place the cookie dough on the prepared baking sheets 2-inches apart. Use the back of a teaspoon measuring spoon to create a small well in the center of each dough ball.
- Bake: Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes.
- Let them cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a rack to cool completely. If needed, use the teaspoon to press the center of each cookie again to form the well before the cookies cool.
- Fudge Filling: Combine the heavy cream, butter, and chocolate chips in a small saucepan. Stir over low heat until the mixture has melted and then let it cool.
- Once the fudge has cooled and thickened, use your teaspoon to scoop the fudge and fill the center of each cookie. Top with a sprinkle of peppermint candies. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
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How long are thumbprint cookies good for?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature these cookies can last up to a week and still taste great!
Can I freeze fudge filled thumbprint cookies?
Yes, these cookies can be frozen. I recommend not topping with additional candy pieces before freezing as they will “melt” and become sticky as they thaw. Another great tip is to layer them in an airtight container with wax paper between each layer to prevent sticking. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months this way.
Can I make fudge filled thumbprint cookies in advance?
Yes, you can make the cookies in advance! This can be done any of several ways. You can prepare the cookie dough and cover it, allowing it to chill in the fridge for up to 2 days in advance. You can also bake and cool the cookies up to 2 days prior to filling as well. The fudge filling can also be made and set aside in a covered container in the fridge but it may become harder to scoop and fill the cookie centers with.
What alternative ingredient can be used for individuals with an egg allergy?
For those with an egg allergy, alternatives such as unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal can be effective substitutes. Typically, ¼ cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water can replace one egg yolk.
Try a few of our other delicious holiday treats here:
- Easy Peppermint Chex Mix
- Christmas Brownie Cookies
- Christmas Candy Puffcorn
- Frosted Peppermint Cookies
- Chocolate Caramels
- Homemade Chocolate Orange Sticks
- Mint Oreo Pudding Cookies
- Homemade Peppermint Patties
- Chippy Dippy Squares
- Peppermint Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies
- Christmas Sprinkle Sugar Cookies
- Holiday Cookie Salad
- Cherry Almond Coconut Shortbread Cookies
- Christmas Cranberry Cake
- Santa Approved Christmas Treats
- Holiday Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Roll
- White Chocolate Cranberry Rice Krispie Treats
- Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups
Peppermint Fudge Thumbprint Cookies are a wonderful holiday dessert that combine a soft cookie base with a sweet fudge filling with minty flavor. These peppermint cookies are so simple to make and even easier to share!
Kara says
I love chocolate mint all the time, but especially during the holidays. These look fantastic!
cora allen says
excellent