Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies

### Instructions for Making Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies

#### 1. **Prepare the Cookie Dough**:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
– In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this step.
– Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter mixture and beat until smooth.
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

#### 2. **Shape the Cookies**:
– Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
– Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press an indentation in the center of each dough ball, forming a small well to hold the chocolate filling.

#### 3. **Bake the Cookies**:
– Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. The centers will puff up a bit, but the indentation should remain.
– Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

#### 4. **Prepare the Chocolate Filling**:
– While the cookies are cooling, prepare the chocolate filling. In a small heatproof bowl, combine the chocolate chips (or chunks) and heavy cream.
– Microwave the mixture in 20-30 second intervals, stirring after each interval until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, you can stir in the additional 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
– Allow the chocolate mixture to cool for a few minutes so it thickens slightly.

#### 5. **Fill the Cookies**:
– Once the cookies have cooled completely, carefully spoon or pipe the chocolate filling into the center of each thumbprint indentation. You can also use a small spoon to fill the wells.
– If desired, sprinkle the tops of the cookies with crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles for a festive touch.

#### 6. **Serve and Enjoy**:
– Allow the chocolate to set for a few minutes before serving. These cookies can be enjoyed right away or stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
– If you want to store them longer, you can refrigerate the cookies, and the chocolate will firm up even more.

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### Tips for Perfect Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies

– **Chill the Dough**: If the dough is too soft to handle or roll into balls, you can chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes before shaping it. This will make the dough easier to work with.

– **Peppermint Extract**: Make sure to use peppermint extract rather than mint extract for that signature refreshing peppermint flavor. If you prefer a milder mint taste, start with less extract and add more to taste.

– **Crushed Peppermints**: Adding crushed candy canes to the tops of the cookies not only enhances the flavor but also gives them a lovely crunch. You can place the candy canes in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin or use pre-crushed peppermint candies.

– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. You can also freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Once the cookies are baked and filled with chocolate, they can be stored in the fridge for longer freshness.

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### Conclusion

Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect treat to add to your holiday cookie collection. With their refreshing minty flavor, sweet chocolate filling, and delightful crunch from crushed candy canes, these cookies are a hit at any holiday gathering. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re a sweet way to celebrate the season with loved ones. Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange or simply indulging in a holiday treat, peppermint thumbprints will become your go-to festive cookie!