M&M Thumbprint Cookies

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These M&M Thumbprint Cookies are soft, rich, and filled with creamy fudge, then topped with colorful mini M&Ms for the perfect pop of sweetness.

They’re fun to make, beautiful on a cookie platter, and taste just like something you’d find in a bakery display case. The combination of chewy chocolate cookie, silky fudge filling, and that little crunch from the M&Ms makes every bite irresistible.

These M&M Thumbprint Cookies are rich, fudgy, and so fun to make! Each soft chocolate cookie is baked to perfection, then filled with a creamy fudge center and topped with colorful mini M&Ms for the ultimate treat. They’re the kind of cookie that looks just as good as it tastes — perfect for holidays, bake sales, or anytime you want something a little extra special.

The base of the cookie is a classic chocolate dough that holds its shape while baking, creating the perfect little well for your filling. Once baked, you’ll fill each cookie with smooth fudge and sprinkle on a handful of mini M&Ms while the center is still warm, so they stick beautifully. They’re festive, fun, and guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients:

For the cookies:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the filling:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup mini M&Ms (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the cookie dough:
   In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg yolks and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Stir in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until the dough forms.
3. Shape the cookies:
   Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon to gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie.
4. Bake:
   Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
5. Make the fudge filling:
   In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla.
6. Fill and decorate:
   Once the cookies have cooled, spoon the fudge filling into the center of each cookie. Immediately top with mini M&Ms before the fudge sets. Allow the cookies to rest until the filling firms up slightly.

Jennie’s Thoughts:

These chocolate thumbprint cookies are the kind of treat that makes everyone smile — especially kids! The fudge center stays soft and rich, and the colorful mini M&Ms make them look so festive. They remind me of something you’d find in a little bakery case, shiny and chocolatey with a playful touch. I love making these for birthdays, holidays, or anytime I want something fun and chocolate-filled to share.

Baking Tips:

If you prefer a softer cookie, be sure not to overbake — the centers should stay slightly soft when you take them out of the oven. You can also swap the M&Ms for sprinkles or crushed peppermint during the holidays for a fun twist. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay soft and chewy for days.

A Few More Thoughts:

These cookies are beautiful on a dessert platter or tucked into gift boxes during the holidays. The fudge filling gives them that luxurious touch while still keeping them easy enough for a weekday bake. Whether you make them for a special occasion or just because you love chocolate, these fudge-filled thumbprint cookies are a hit every single time.