Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are like a cozy hug for your taste buds, wrapping them in a delightful blend of sweet chocolate and nutty goodness. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery cookie with a rich chocolate center that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day. The moment you smell these cookies baking, you’ll be transported back to your childhood kitchen, where the aroma of sugar and chocolate mingled in the air like the sweetest symphony.
Every time I make Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies, I remember baking with my grandma, who always encouraged me to get my hands sticky. She would laugh as I tried to form perfect thumbprints, but they always turned out uniquely delicious. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy winter evening or a festive gathering. Get ready, because each bite promises an explosion of flavors that will leave you dreaming of more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients.
- The rich chocolate and nutty flavors create an irresistible combination that’s visually stunning.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings or simply indulging yourself on a lazy afternoon.
- These cookies are versatile enough to be customized with your favorite fillings!
Ingredients for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure, use unbleached flour for a more natural flavor.
Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s softened at room temperature for easy mixing and delightful creaminess.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetener adds the necessary sweetness to balance the nuttiness of hazelnuts.
Brown Sugar: Offers moisture and depth of flavor thanks to its molasses content.
Egg Yolk: Adds richness and helps bind all the ingredients together beautifully.
Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the overall flavor profile, making every bite even more divine.
For the Filling:
Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: Choose your favorite brand for that creamy, nutty finish that makes these cookies heavenly.
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
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and turn out perfectly golden brown.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients while stirring until just combined—don’t overmix; we want tender cookies!
Step 4: Shape Your Cookies
Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls and place them on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your thumb (or any other finger you feel comfortable using) to create an indentation in each ball.
Step 5: Fill with Chocolate Hazelnut Spread
Spoon about half a teaspoon of chocolate hazelnut spread into each thumbprint. This is where magic happens—watch those little pits fill up with chocolaty goodness!
Step 6: Bake
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until they’re lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake!
Transfer to plates and let them cool slightly before devouring these delightful treats—you deserve every crumb! Enjoy these Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for an extra touch of bliss!
You Must Know
- These delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are not just a treat for your taste buds; they also make you look like a baking superstar.
- With their sweet chocolate filling and crunchy hazelnuts, they turn any gathering into a celebration.
- Perfect for gifting or indulging yourself!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the cookie dough first. While it chills, preheat your oven. Once ready, scoop the dough, form the thumbprints, and fill them with chocolate. Bake until golden brown for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out hazelnuts for walnuts or almonds if you’re feeling adventurous. Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate filling for an extra flavor kick. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to savor that fresh-baked taste later, freeze them and reheat briefly in the oven.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies, use room-temperature butter for better mixing.
- Always chill the dough to prevent spreading during baking.
- Finally, let cookies cool completely before storing to maintain their crispness.
Sharing my first batch of Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies with friends was unforgettable; they devoured them so quickly I barely got one myself!
FAQs:
What are Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are delightful treats that combine a rich chocolate dough with a gooey hazelnut filling. These cookies feature an inviting thumbprint in the center, filled with a luscious blend of chocolate or nut spread, providing a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for special occasions or as a sweet snack, these cookies are simple to make and sure to impress family and friends alike.
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 up to five days when stored properly. For longer storage, consider placing them in the refrigerator or freezer. If frozen, let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying their delightful taste again.
Can I substitute ingredients in Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?
Absolutely! You can substitute various ingredients based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For example, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option. Additionally, you can replace hazelnuts with walnuts or pecans if desired. Just ensure that any adjustments maintain the cookie’s integrity and flavor.
Are Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies suitable for kids?
Yes, Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are kid-friendly and make a fun treat for children. The sweet chocolate and nutty flavors appeal to young palates, and kids can even help with the thumbprint process! Just ensure that any nut allergies are considered when serving these delicious cookies.
Conclusion for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies:
In summary, Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies offer a delightful combination of chocolatey goodness and nutty flavor that makes them irresistible. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these treats in no time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe!
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are a delectable fusion of soft, buttery cookies filled with creamy chocolate hazelnut spread. These delightful treats evoke warm memories of baking with loved ones, making them perfect for any occasion. With their irresistible flavors and simple preparation, these cookies are sure to become a go-to recipe in your baking collection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your thumb to create an indentation in each ball.
- Fill each thumbprint with about half a teaspoon of chocolate hazelnut spread.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Let cookies cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate filling before baking. - Substitute hazelnuts with walnuts or pecans for different nutty flavors.
