Looking for a simple and indulgent biscuit recipe? Try your hand at making Dark Chocolate Orange Thumbprint Biscuits. This recipe takes classic flavours and combines them in a rich, buttery base that melts in your mouth.
With a hint of zest and a dark chocolate centre, these biscuits are perfect alongside a cuppa or as an after-dinner treat. Want something premade instead? Check out our cookie delivery box, which comes packed with delicious options.
Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients
- 115g unsalted butter, softened
- 100g granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 150g plain flour
- 20g cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 medium orange (zest only)
- 100g dark chocolate, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp double cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients
Beat together the butter and sugar in a medium-sized bowl. The mixture should look smooth and creamy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Grate the orange zest directly into the dry mix for freshness and even distribution. For further baking ideas, why not explore our postal blondie box?
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
Once the dough comes together, cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This makes shaping easier.
Step 4: Preheat Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step 5: Shape Biscuits
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls.
Place each ball onto the prepared tray, leaving room for light spreading.
Use your thumb to create an indent in the centre of each ball. Ensure the indent is deep enough to hold the filling later.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the biscuits for 10–12 minutes. They should appear set but not overly firm.
Remove the tray from the oven. If the indents have puffed up, gently press them back down using the end of a wooden spoon while the biscuits are still warm.
Leave the biscuits to cool completely on the tray.
Step 7: Prepare Chocolate Filling
In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and double cream.
Place the bowl over a pan of simmering water, ensuring the bowl does not touch the water. Stir until smooth and glossy.
If you prefer using the microwave, heat in short 20-second bursts, stirring between each round to avoid burning the chocolate.
Step 8: Fill and Serve
Spoon the melted chocolate into the indents of the cooled biscuits. Allow the filling to set before serving.
If you’d like an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of grated orange zest over the chocolate before it sets. For more treats, browse our luxury afternoon tea delivery box.
Tips for Best Results
- If your dough feels sticky after chilling, dust your hands with flour when rolling the balls.
- For stronger orange flavour, add a few drops of orange extract to the dough or filling.
- Swap dark chocolate for milk or white if you prefer a sweeter bite.
- Store these biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.
Why These Flavours Work
Dark chocolate and orange are a classic pairing. The richness of the chocolate balances the tangy brightness of the orange.
Adding the orange zest directly to the dough infuses each bite with natural flavour.
Personal Experience
Making these biscuits was straightforward. The texture was crisp around the edges and soft in the centre. The filling added a luxurious finish.
They disappeared quickly when shared with family over tea. Don't forget to try some of our rocky road treats for more inspiration!
Your Turn
What do you think of this combination? Would you try a different filling?
Experiment with extra toppings like crushed nuts or a drizzle of white chocolate for decoration.
Baking at home means you’re in control of the flavours. Take advantage of that.
