The moment I stepped into my kitchen, the air filled with the rich scent of toasting hazelnuts, I knew I was in for something special. It was one of those days when I craved a treat that was both indulgent and comforting, and I found myself drawn to the idea of making Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a chewy cookie, its surface crunchy from toasted hazelnuts, giving way to a delightful center of silky chocolate hazelnut spread. It’s a sweet hug for your taste buds! Perfect for any occasion—from casual afternoons to extravagant desserts at dinner parties—this recipe is as simple as it is satisfying.
With basic pantry ingredients and a dash of patience, you can whip up these treats that not only taste gourmet but also look the part. Grab your apron, and let’s create something truly special that will elevate your cookie game and bring joy to everyone who takes a bite!
Why are Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies irresistible?
Indulging in Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies means treating yourself to pure bliss!
- Chewy Delight: Each bite boasts a tender, chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Nuts Galore: Toasted hazelnuts create a satisfying, crunchy layer that enhances each cookie.
- Decadently Rich: A generous dollop of decadent chocolate hazelnut spread transforms these cookies into a luxurious treat!
- Simple Baking: With pantry staples and straightforward instructions, you’ll be a baking pro in no time.
- Crowd Favorite: These cookies are perfect for sharing, making them an instant hit at any gathering.
Ready to elevate your baking with this scrumptious delight? Check out more about our easy baking recipes for creative inspiration!
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake your new favorite cookies!
For the Cookie Base
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies; swap with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Dutch processed cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; use unsweetened cocoa as a substitute for a slightly different taste.
- Salt – Enhances sweetness and flavor without any substitutes needed.
- Unsalted butter – Creates a rich, tender texture; margarine or non-dairy butter can make this vegan-friendly.
- Egg yolk – Adds moisture and richness; for a vegan option, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
- Milk – Contributes moisture to the dough; any plant-based milk can be used here.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens and smoothens the dough; try coconut icing sugar for a healthier alternative.
- Vanilla extract – Adds aromatic depth; omit if necessary, but the flavor will be slightly different.
For the Topping
- Finely chopped hazelnuts (toasted) – Adds a crunchy and nutty layer; can substitute with chopped almonds or pecans, but it will alter the flavor.
- Chocolate hazelnut spread – The delicious filling; opting for a high-quality, low-sugar brand will elevate your cookies even more.
Now that you have all the essential ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from delighting your taste buds with these Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies!
How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 180°C / 355°F (fan on) and line your baking trays with parchment paper. This step is crucial to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
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Whisk together the all-purpose flour, Dutch processed cocoa powder, and salt in a mixing bowl, setting it aside for later. You’re building the cookie’s structure and rich chocolate flavor here!
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Cream the unsalted butter and powdered sugar in a separate bowl together for about 3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. Then, mix in the egg yolk and milk until well combined—this creates the cookie’s moist base.
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Roll about thirty 1½ tablespoon-sized balls of dough and coat them in the finely chopped toasted hazelnuts. Keep your hands slightly damp to prevent the dough from sticking as you roll.
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Chill the rolled cookie dough balls on a lined tray in the refrigerator for 1 hour. This chilling time helps maintain their shape during baking—don’t skip it!
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Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 8 minutes without flattening them. Watch for a nice set without browning too much—these should be chewy!
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Indent each cookie immediately after they come out of the oven using a measuring tablespoon. This will create the perfect space for your delicious filling to nestle in.
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Cool completely on the tray before filling the indented centers with your choice of chocolate hazelnut spread. This ensures every bite is luscious and filled with delight!
Optional: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for an extra decadent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
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Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chilling step! It’s crucial for keeping the dough from spreading during baking, ensuring perfect cookie shape.
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Indenting Technique: Use a measuring tablespoon right after baking to create a well without cracking the cookie. This shapes the thumbprint beautifully!
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Quality Counts: Invest in a high-quality chocolate hazelnut spread. A good choice will deepen the flavor of your cookies and enhance your baking experience.
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Nut Substitutions: While hazelnuts add great texture, feel free to swap in almonds or pecans. But remember, this will change the flavor profile of your cookies.
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Baking Sheets: Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper. It prevents sticking and promotes even baking, making your cookie experience hassle-free.
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Variations
Explore the delicious potential of your Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies with these fun twists!
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Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of hazelnut spread to create a nut-free version that’s still creamy and indulgent.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprising heat that complements the chocolate perfectly.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the dough for a fresh and zesty flavor, brightening the chocolate notes.
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Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and plant-based milk to create a delightful dairy-free version, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.
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Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks for extra chocolatey goodness in the cookie base.
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Almond Essence: Add a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla for a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the hazelnuts.
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Cookie Butter Center: Replace hazelnut spread with cookie butter for a uniquely spiced and caramel-like filling that’ll have everyone asking for more!
Let your creativity shine as you customize these cookies to delight your taste buds!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their delightful chewiness.
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Fridge: If you prefer a chilled cookie, keep the Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week; the texture will remain enjoyable.
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Freezer: To extend their shelf life, freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in a resealable freezer bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
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Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes. They’ll taste just as delicious as when baked!
What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?
When indulging in these delightful cookies, consider pairing them with flavors that enhance their rich chocolate and nutty taste.
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Fresh Berries: A vibrant medley of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a refreshing tartness that balances the cookie’s sweetness beautifully. The juiciness of the berries provides a lovely contrast to the rich texture of the cookies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream cascading over a warm cookie creates a heavenly dessert experience. The mild flavor of vanilla complements the chocolate, making each bite feel like a decadent treat.
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Espresso or Coffee: A robust cup of espresso or freshly brewed coffee not only enhances the chocolate flavors but also provides a delightful warmth to counter the cookie’s chewiness. A sip between bites keeps the indulgence going strong!
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A rich chocolate sauce drizzled over your cookies elevates the chocolate experience to new heights. This simple addition makes your cookies look truly gourmet and indulgent!
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Nut Brittle: Add a crunchy note with nut brittle on the side. Its caramelized sweetness pairs seamlessly with the chewy cookies, enhancing their nutty undertones.
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Red Wine: For an adult twist, serve a glass of red wine, like Pinot Noir, which pairs beautifully with chocolate desserts. It’s a sophisticated choice that brings out the flavors and makes every bite feel special.
These pairings will elevate your enjoyment of Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies, turning a simple treat into a memorable dessert experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking, which helps you save valuable time on busy days. Simply follow the initial steps to combine the ingredients and roll the dough into balls, then coat them in chopped hazelnuts. After that, refrigerate the unbaked cookie balls, ensuring they maintain their shape. When ready to bake, preheat your oven and bake the chilled cookies straight from the fridge. After baking, don’t forget to fill each indent with your favorite chocolate hazelnut spread for that delicious finishing touch! Enjoy homemade goodness without the last-minute rush!
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best hazelnuts for my cookies?
Absolutely! Look for hazelnuts that are plump, firm, and shiny. Avoid any nuts with dark spots or blemishes, as they can indicate spoilage. Toast them lightly in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor before adding them to the cookie dough.
What is the best way to store Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?
You can store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you prefer a chillier treat, refrigerate them for up to a week, but you’ll notice the texture remains soft and delightful without losing its charm.
Can I freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?
Yes, definitely! To freeze your cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re fully frozen, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, it often means the dough was too warm or soft before baking. To troubleshoot, chill the dough for a bit longer next time—aiming for at least 1 hour is ideal. Additionally, always ensure your oven is preheated correctly before baking.
Are there any allergies to consider when making these cookies?
Yes! Keep in mind that the recipe contains gluten (from all-purpose flour) and dairy (from butter and milk). You can easily adapt it for gluten or dairy sensitivities—just swap in gluten-free flour and a non-dairy butter or milk alternative. Always check labels if you’re using store-bought ingredients to avoid any allergens.
Can I substitute the chocolate hazelnut spread?
Absolutely! While the chocolate hazelnut spread is the star of these cookies, you can replace it with homemade chocolate ganache or peanut butter for a delightful twist. Just ensure whatever filling you choose complements the cookie base for a harmonious flavor experience.
Chewy Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Worth Baking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C / 355°F (fan on) and line your baking trays with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, Dutch processed cocoa powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Cream the unsalted butter and powdered sugar together for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg yolk and milk until well combined.
- Roll about thirty 1½ tablespoon-sized balls of dough and coat them in the finely chopped toasted hazelnuts.
- Chill the rolled cookie dough balls on a lined tray in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
- Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 8 minutes.
- Indent each cookie immediately after they come out of the oven using a measuring tablespoon.
- Cool completely on the tray before filling the indented centers with your choice of chocolate hazelnut spread.