There’s a certain joy that comes from baking cookies that is hard to replicate in any other kitchen activity. For me, it often starts with a craving for something sweet that leads me to unlock my pantry. It was during one of those delightful moments, armed with a jar of chocolate hazelnut spread and a bag of hazelnuts, that I stumbled upon the irresistible creation known as Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies.
Imagine a tender, buttery cookie with a rich cocoa flavor, cradling a luscious dollop of creamy hazelnut indulgence right in the center. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe transforms the ordinary into something extraordinary, making it perfect for both cozy weekends and impressive gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to elevate your dessert game, these cookies promise to bring smiles with each bite and a hint of nostalgia that reminds us why homemade treats always outshine fast food desserts. Let’s get baking!
Why Love Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?
Irresistible taste: The delightful blend of buttery dough with rich cocoa and smooth hazelnut spread creates a cookie experience that’s truly memorable.
Easy preparation: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this recipe invites everyone from beginners to experts to join in.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties or cozy family nights, these cookies satisfy both sweet cravings and nostalgic feelings.
Versatile serving options: Dress them up with whole hazelnuts or enjoy them plain—every bite is delicious.
Time-efficient: Whip up a batch in just over an hour, and enjoy the fruits of your labor! Dive deeper into the wonderful world of cookie recipes and discover more tempting options.
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Dough
- Unsalted butter – 1 cup (2 sticks), softened for a perfect creamy base.
- Granulated sugar – 2/3 cup, brings sweetness and lightness to the dough.
- Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons, adds warm notes that enhance flavor.
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups, the backbone of the cookie structure.
- Cocoa powder – 1/2 cup, infuses a rich chocolate flavor essential for thumbprint cookies.
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon, balances sweetness and elevates the flavors.
For Rolling
- Hazelnuts (finely chopped) – 1/2 cup, gives a delightful crunch and complements the chocolate.
For the Filling
- Chocolate hazelnut spread – 1/2 cup, the star of the show that delivers creamy indulgence.
- Extra whole hazelnuts (for garnish) – optional but recommended, adds a decorative touch and extra texture.
Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in crafting the delectable flavor of Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies. Enjoy the process, and remember, a little love goes a long way in your baking!
How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
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Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture.
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Cream ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 2/3 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for that delightful aroma.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This combination creates the dough’s rich base.
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Combine mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until everything is well combined. The dough should feel firm and pliable.
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Form balls: Roll the dough into balls, each about 1 inch in diameter. Then, roll each ball in 1/2 cup of finely chopped hazelnuts until nicely coated. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space in between.
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Indent cookies: Press your thumb—or the back of a small spoon—gently into the center of each cookie ball to create an indentation, perfect for holding the filling.
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Bake cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-14 minutes. The cookies should be set yet soft to the touch.
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Add filling: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and while they are still warm, re-press the indentations if necessary. Spoon about a teaspoon of chocolate hazelnut spread into the center of each cookie—delicious!
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Cool down: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step ensures they hold their shape while cooling completely.
Optional: Garnish with a whole hazelnut pressed into the spread for added crunch and decoration.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?
Indulging in these delightful cookies opens the door to a world of delicious pairings that elevate your dessert experience.
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Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of coffee perfectly complement the chocolate, enhancing each bite of the cookies.
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Milk: A classic pairing, a cold glass of milk balances the sweetness and adds a nostalgic touch to your cookie enjoyment.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a creamy element against the rich hazelnut chocolate, making each bite even more delightful.
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Ice Cream: Elevate your dessert by serving these cookies with a scoop of vanilla or hazelnut ice cream; the melting creaminess creates a heavenly experience.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cookies for an extra layer of indulgence that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy berries like raspberries or strawberries offer a tart contrast that brightens the rich flavors of the cookies, creating a beautiful balance.
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Nutty Hot Chocolate: A steaming cup of hazelnut hot chocolate pairs beautifully, enhancing the nutty notes while wrapping you in warmth.
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Fruit Tart: For a different texture, a fruit tart adds a refreshing element and a touch of color, making your dessert table pop.
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Cheese Board: A small cheese board with creamy cheeses can provide a unique and savory counterpoint to the sweet cookies—try a soft brie for the best contrast!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened, not melted. This helps achieve a light and fluffy texture in your cookie dough.
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Measuring Flour: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately. Scooping it directly can lead to dense cookies; ensure each cookie is melt-in-your-mouth delightful!
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Indention Technique: Press the indentation firmly but gently to avoid breaking the cookie. You can always re-press if it puffs up during baking—this keeps your Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies looking perfect.
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Chilling the Dough: If your dough feels too soft to roll into balls, chill it in the fridge for 15-30 minutes. This step makes handling easier and improves the cookies’ shape while baking.
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Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time! Check for doneness around the 12-minute mark. They should look set but remain soft for the best texture.
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Storage Tips: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer freshness; just thaw before enjoying!
Storage Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep freshly baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This way, they stay soft and delicious for every craving!
Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, store the cookies in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks. Just allow them to sit out for a few minutes before enjoying.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving!
Reheating: To revive the freshness, reheat the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Enjoy your Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies warm!
Make Ahead Options
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are a dream for those who love meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough and shape it into balls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply roll the dough balls in chopped hazelnuts, then refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to bake, just remove the cookie balls and proceed to create the indentations and bake them as instructed. For added convenience, you can also fill the cookies with chocolate hazelnut spread up to 3 days ahead of time; just keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. This way, you ensure that your cookies remain just as delicious with minimal effort on busy days!
Chocolate Hazelnut Variations
There’s so much potential to make these cookies your own and enhance their deliciousness even more!
- Nut-Free: Substitute finely chopped almonds or sunflower seeds instead of hazelnuts for a safe and crunchy alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to keep everyone satisfied while enjoying these delightful cookies.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add half a cup of chocolate chips to the dough for extra chocolate flavor and delightful bursts of sweetness.
- Spicy Twist: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough for a warm kick that excites your palate.
- Fruit Fusion: Swap the chocolate hazelnut spread with raspberry or strawberry jam for a fruity update that’s just as delicious.
- Caramel Delight: Drizzle melted caramel over the chocolate hazelnut spread for an indulgent, rich topping that takes these cookies to the next level.
- Coconut Dream: Roll the dough balls in shredded coconut before baking for a tropical twist and added chewy texture.
- Decadence Boost: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor, creating a deeper and more complex taste sensation.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas for a unique take on your Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies!
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe hazelnuts?
Absolutely! When selecting hazelnuts, look for those that are firm and shiny without any dark spots or blemishes. Avoid nuts that feel soft or have an overly dull appearance, as these may be stale or spoiled.
What’s the best way to store Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?
To keep your delicious cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to preserve them for longer, you can refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks. Just let them warm up for a bit before enjoying!
Can I freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?
Very! To freeze, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they are solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. You can store them for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven for a few minutes.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky to roll?
Not to worry! If the dough seems too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This helps it firm up, making it easier to handle and roll into balls. Remember, a chilled dough often leads to better-shaped cookies!
Are Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies safe for pets?
No, it’s important to note that chocolate and hazelnuts can be harmful to pets, especially dogs. Always keep your baked goods out of reach and consider using carob chips as a pet-friendly alternative for treats to keep our furry friends safe!
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version or swap the chocolate hazelnut spread for a fruit jam for a different but equally delicious thumbprint cookie. Enjoy experimenting!
Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Roll the dough into balls, each about 1 inch in diameter, and coat in finely chopped hazelnuts.
- Press your thumb into the center of each cookie ball to create an indentation.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes in the preheated oven. The cookies should be set yet soft to the touch.
- Once baked, re-press the indentations if necessary and spoon chocolate hazelnut spread into the center of each cookie.
- Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.