Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are like little morsels of happiness. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that oozes rich chocolate and nutty goodness with every nibble. These cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a reason to gather around the kitchen table, sharing laughter and crumbs with loved ones.
As I take you on this delicious journey, remember the warmth of freshly baked cookies filling your home with comforting aromas. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon or a festive gathering, these cookies will make your heart sing and your taste buds dance!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion
- The unique blend of flavors creates a delightful experience for your taste buds
- Their visual appeal makes them an impressive addition to any dessert table
- Enjoy them with coffee, tea, or even as a midnight snack!
Ingredients for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: About 2 cups is ideal for creating a chewy texture without being too dense.
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter (1 cup) is key for rich flavor and perfect consistency in your dough.
Granulated Sugar: Use about 3/4 cup to balance the nuttiness of hazelnuts perfectly.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
Hazelnuts: Roughly chopped (1 cup) for that delightful nutty crunch—toast them for extra flavor!
Cocoa Powder: Approximately half a cup adds that irresistible chocolatey goodness to each bite.
Eggs: One large egg binds everything together while keeping the cookies moist and tender.
For the Filling:
Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: Use about one cup of Nutella or your favorite brand; it’s what makes these cookies truly irresistible!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper so those cookies can slide off easily when they’re done.
Step 2: Mix Your Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Think of it as giving your butter a spa day! Add in one egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and chopped hazelnuts. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it; we want soft cookies, not cookie bricks!
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets about two inches apart because they love their personal space. Press your thumb gently into each ball to create an indentation; this is where all the chocolate hazelnut spread magic happens!
Step 5: Bake Away
Pop those beauties in the oven for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they look slightly set but still soft in the center—trust me; they’ll firm up while cooling.
Step 6: Fill with Deliciousness
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Once cooled completely, fill each thumbprint with chocolate hazelnut spread using a spoon or piping bag for an extra touch of elegance.
Serve these delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies at parties or keep them all for yourself—no judgment here! Pair them with coffee or milk for the ultimate indulgence experience that would make anyone feel special!
You Must Know
- These delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies combine rich chocolate with a nutty crunch and a luscious filling
- They’re perfect for gifts, holiday treats, or just to indulge yourself
- With simple ingredients and an easy process, you’ll impress everyone around the cookie jar!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking sheets. Mix the dough while that’s heating up. Once the dough is ready, scoop it onto the sheets, create thumbprints, and fill them with hazelnut spread before baking. Timing is everything for that perfect texture!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out hazelnuts for walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Want extra chocolate? Toss in some chocolate chips or even use dark chocolate instead of milk. Spice it up with a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an unexpected twist!
Storing & Reheating
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If they last that long! You can also freeze them for longer storage; just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always chill your dough before baking to prevent spreading; it helps maintain that perfect shape
- Use a spoon or your finger to make the thumbprint deep enough to hold the filling without overflowing
- Don’t skip the cooling time; it makes all the difference in texture!
Sometimes, I whip these up when friends visit, and their eyes light up as they take that first bite—it’s pure magic every time!
FAQs :
What are Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are delightful treats that combine rich chocolate flavor with the nutty essence of hazelnuts. These cookies feature a soft, buttery base with a thumbprint indentation filled with creamy chocolate hazelnut spread. They are perfect for any occasion and offer a delicious blend of textures, making them a favorite among cookie lovers.
How do I store Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?
To keep your Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about one week this way. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.
Can I use other nut spreads instead of chocolate hazelnut spread?
Absolutely! While chocolate hazelnut spread is traditional for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies, you can experiment with other nut spreads like almond or peanut butter. Each alternative will change the flavor profile slightly but can still yield delicious results. Just ensure that the consistency is similar so that it fills the thumbprint well.
Are Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies gluten-free?
You can easily make Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the other ingredients, such as the chocolate hazelnut spread, do not contain gluten. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty cookies regardless of dietary restrictions.
Conclusion for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies :
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are an irresistible treat that combines rich chocolate and nutty flavors in every bite. With their soft texture and sweet filling, they are perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Storing these cookies is easy, and they remain delightful even after freezing. Don’t hesitate to explore variations with different nut spreads. Enjoy baking and sharing these scrumptious cookies with family and friends!
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and the nutty crunch of hazelnuts. These soft, chewy cookies feature a thumbprint filled with creamy chocolate hazelnut spread, making them the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy evening at home, these cookies will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped hazelnuts (toasted if desired)
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and chopped hazelnuts. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Press your thumb into each ball to create an indentation.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until slightly set but still soft in the center. Cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Once cooled completely, fill each thumbprint with chocolate hazelnut spread.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
