Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe are delightful treats that bring together the rich flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only easy to make but also impressively delicious. With a soft, chewy texture and a creamy chocolate hazelnut filling, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether for a holiday gathering or as a sweet gift, this recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and hazelnuts creates a rich taste that is hard to resist.
• Perfect for Gifting: Pack these cookies in a festive box to share with friends and family during special occasions.
• Versatile Design: Customize the cookies by adding different fillings or toppings based on your preference.
• Kid-Friendly Activity: Baking these cookies can be a fun activity to do with children, allowing them to get creative in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies, having the right tools is essential. Gather these kitchen essentials before you start baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a fluffy texture for your cookies.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect dough consistency.
• Parchment paper: Lining baking sheets with parchment prevents sticking and ensures even baking.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For Rolling and Filling

• 1/2 cup hazelnuts, finely chopped (for rolling)
• 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread, such as Nutella
• Extra whole hazelnuts for garnish (optional)

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt until well mixed.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients into Butter Mixture

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the butter mixture. Mix until fully combined. The dough should be firm yet pliable.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in finely chopped hazelnuts until fully coated. Place them on prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Create Indentations

Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, press an indentation into the center of each cookie ball.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 12-14 minutes. The cookies should be set but still soft when you take them out.

Step 8: Add Chocolate Filling

Once removed from the oven while still warm, re-press any puffed-up indentations. Spoon about a teaspoon of chocolate hazelnut spread into each center. Optionally, press a whole hazelnut into the spread for added crunch.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

These delightful cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want a sweet treat at home, here are some serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that enhances the chocolate flavor.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies and mini cheesecakes for an impressive display.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla or hazelnut ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Gift-Wrapped for Special Occasions

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or jars to create thoughtful gifts for friends and family during holidays or celebrations.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up that balances sweetness with warmth.

Decorated for Festive Events

• Add festive decorations like edible glitter or sprinkles on top of the chocolate hazelnut spread for holiday parties or special events.

How to Perfect Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

To ensure your Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips.

• Use Room Temperature Butter: This helps achieve a creamy texture when creaming with sugar, leading to light and fluffy cookies.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mixing just until combined prevents tough cookies; stop as soon as there are no dry ingredients visible.

• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes before shaping. This makes rolling easier.

• Re-Press Indentations: After baking, gently re-press the centers to hold more filling. This ensures ample space for the chocolate hazelnut spread.

• Experiment with Nut Coatings: Try using crushed almonds or pecans instead of hazelnuts for different flavors and textures in your cookies.

• Store Properly: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming stale.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a creamy contrast that complements the cookies’ richness.
3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese to provide a savory element that pairs well with sweet treats.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Create an interactive dessert by offering melted chocolate alongside fruits and marshmallows for dipping.
5. Nutty Granola Bars: These bars add crunch and fiber, making them a nutritious companion to your indulgent cookies.
6. Mini Cupcakes: Offer assorted mini cupcakes as additional sweet bites that will delight guests without overwhelming them.
7. Spiced Chai Latte: Serve this warm beverage alongside your cookies to provide comforting spices that enhance their flavor.
8. Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop on top of each cookie gives it an airy lightness that melds beautifully with its chocolatey goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chocolate hazelnut thumbprint cookies can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect your results.

• Not Softening the Butter: Using cold butter will prevent proper creaming with sugar. Always soften the butter to room temperature for better texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined so your cookies stay tender.
• Skipping the Indentation: Forgetting to create an indentation means missing the delicious filling. Remember to press down in the center before baking.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to unevenly cooked cookies. Always preheat your oven accurately for best results.
• Not Letting Cookies Cool: Not allowing cookies to cool properly can make them crumbly. Give them time on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

• Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Ensure cookies are completely cooled before freezing.

Reheating Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, covering briefly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe?

This recipe features rich chocolate dough rolled in chopped hazelnuts and filled with chocolate hazelnut spread, creating a delightful treat.

Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute hazelnuts with almonds, walnuts, or pecans based on your preference.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free chocolate hazelnut thumbprint cookies, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

How long do these cookies last?

These cookies stay fresh in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature or three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

The Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding spices or different fillings like fruit preserves. Try making this delightful treat today and impress your friends and family!