1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla
2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup heavy cream
Optional: festive sprinkles or sea salt for topping
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats so the cookies do not stick to the surface. This ensures an even bake and a very easy cleanup once the cookies are finished.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about two to three minutes with an electric mixer. Add the egg yolk and the alcohol-free vanilla, then continue to mix until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the butter mixture while mixing on low speed. Be careful not to overmix, stop as soon as the flour streaks disappear and a soft dough forms.
Scoop about one tablespoon of dough at a time and roll it into a smooth ball about one inch in diameter. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about two inches of space between each one. Use your thumb or the back of a small round measuring spoon to gently press an indentation into the center of each dough ball.
Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 9 to 11 minutes. The cookies should look set but still feel slightly soft to the touch. If the centers have puffed up during baking, you can gently press them down again with a spoon immediately after taking them out of the oven while they are still warm.
While the cookies are cooling on a wire rack, prepare the chocolate filling. Heat the heavy cream in a small bowl until it just begins to simmer, then pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for one minute before stirring until smooth. Spoon the warm ganache into the center of each cookie and add sprinkles if you like. Allow the chocolate to set completely before serving.
