Chocolate thumbprint cookies

These are a copycat version of the cookies found in our local Tom Thumb and Albertsons. They are buttery and rich with a creamy truffle-type center of chocolate ganache.

Cookie:

2 sticks butter (1 cup), room temperature

1/2 cup white sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

2 large egg yolks

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Ganache:

8 ounces chocolate chips (semi-sweet)

1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Combine the flour, baking powder, and all-purpose flour in a bowl. Set aside. Cream together the butter and sugars using a mixer. Add in the Vanilla extract and egg yolks. Slowing mix in the dry ingredients. Stir just to combine. Do not over-mix. Roll into 1-2 tablespoon size balls and place on parchment paper. Gently press the center to make an indent. Bake in a 375-degree oven for 9-11 minutes. Do not let them brown. Cool fully on a wire rack.

Once fully cooled, make the ganache. Heat the heavy cream in a double boiler. Stir constantly and bring it to a gentle simmer but not a full boil. Pour this over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let this mixture sit for 3 minutes and then whisk vigorously until all the chocolate is melted and has a creamy consistency. Place a teaspoon amount into the center of each cookie. Cool on the counter fully. The ganache will harden.

Peanut butter cookies with chocolate candies

These are literally the most giant, delicious, bakery style cookies ever. They will really amaze any person. The candies are so colorful. The size alone makes them irresistible.

1 1/3 cup all pourpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup softened butter (salted or unsalted)

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

3/4 cup creamy peanut butter

1 egg

1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

In a large mixer, cream together the butter and sugars. Add the egg. Mix well. Continue to add the following ingredients in this order while mixing in between: vanilla, peanut butter, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Finally, add the flour. Mix fully. Roll into 2 tablespoon sized balls (very large). Leave 3 inches around each ball for spreading while baking. Place on a silicone mat lined baking sheet. Press the top of each ball using a fork. Sprinkle with mini chocolate candies. Bake in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for 11-13 minutes or until centers are set. Do not over-bake. Allow to cool on the pan for 5-10 minutes prior to removing.