Decadent Hazelnut Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

Indulge your senses with the decadent flavors of Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies. These delightful treats perfectly blend rich chocolate cookie dough with the luxurious taste of chocolate hazelnut spread. Rolled in finely chopped hazelnuts for a satisfying crunch, each cookie boasts a creamy Nutella-filled center that is simply irresistible. Ideal for festive occasions or whenever a craving strikes, these cookies are a must-have in your baking repertoire.

As the aroma of chocolate and toasted hazelnuts wafts through my kitchen, memories of cozy gatherings and European café vibes come flooding back. Perfected through numerous batches and subtle adjustments, this recipe harmoniously marries buttery cocoa dough with the classic pairing of chocolate and hazelnuts. These thumbprint cookies have become a staple at family celebrations and cookie exchanges, always eliciting praise for their tender texture and sophisticated flavors.

With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a touch of crunch, these cookies offer a taste of luxury in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, the simple yet elegant nature of these Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies makes them a delightful addition to any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a batch of these heavenly cookies that are sure to impress and satisfy your cravings.

Quick Benefits

• Tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a delightful crunch from hazelnuts
• Elegant, café-quality treat with rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor
• Surprisingly simple to make yet impressively sophisticated
• Dough can be made ahead and frozen for convenience

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Hazelnut Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

• The rich aroma of chocolate and toasted hazelnuts will fill your kitchen, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
• The combination of buttery cocoa dough with indulgent chocolate hazelnut spread creates a decadent flavor profile that is both comforting and luxurious.
• The cookies are rolled in finely chopped hazelnuts, adding a delightful crunch to every bite and enhancing the overall texture.
• They have a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture with just the right amount of crunch, providing a satisfying eating experience.
• These cookies are surprisingly simple to make yet look impressively sophisticated, making them perfect for special occasions or holiday baking.
• The option to garnish with whole hazelnuts adds an extra touch of elegance and creates a visually appealing presentation.
• The dough can be made ahead and frozen, allowing you to have freshly baked cookies whenever the craving strikes.
• These cookies maintain their perfect texture for days, ensuring that you can enjoy them over an extended period without compromising quality.
• They are beautiful enough for gifting, making them an ideal homemade present for friends and family, but are also easy enough for everyday baking.
• The combination of ingredients like high-quality butter, Dutch-processed cocoa, fresh hazelnuts, and pure vanilla extract elevates the overall flavor profile of the cookies, ensuring a delicious result every time.

Ingredients for Decadent Hazelnut Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

Cookie Base

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

Coating & Filling

• 1/2 cup hazelnuts, finely chopped (for rolling)
• Whole hazelnuts for garnish (optional)
• 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella)

Pro Tips for Decadent Hazelnut Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

Pro Tip 1: For the best flavor and texture, opt for room temperature ingredients when making the cookie dough. Leaving the butter out for precisely one hour will ensure it’s the perfect consistency for creating a smooth dough.

Pro Tip 2: To enhance the hazelnut flavor, toast the hazelnuts before chopping them for the recipe. This step releases their oils and deepens their taste, resulting in a more flavorful final product.

Pro Tip 3: When working with chocolate hazelnut spread, slightly warm it before filling the cookies. This will make it easier to pipe and create a smoother finish on top of the cookies.

How to Make Decadent Hazelnut Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Step 01

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Step 02

Using an electric mixer, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Step 03

Combine flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a bowl, whisk until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Step 04

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture gradually, mixing until a firm, pliable dough forms.

Step 5: Step 05

Form the dough into 1-inch balls, coat them with chopped hazelnuts, and arrange them on baking sheets with 2-inch spacing.

Step 6: Step 06

Create an indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb or a small spoon. Bake for 12-14 minutes until the cookies are set but still soft.

Step 7: Step 07

While the cookies are still warm, deepen any indentations as needed and fill each one with a teaspoon of chocolate hazelnut spread. For a decorative touch, add a whole hazelnut on top.

Step 8: Step 08

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

Storage Tips

To store the finished Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies, allow them to cool completely after baking. Once cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can store the cookies at room temperature for up to a week, ensuring they maintain their perfect texture and flavor.

For longer storage, these cookies can be frozen. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, separating layers with parchment paper. These cookies can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies, you can make a few ingredient substitutions based on your preferences and what you have on hand. If you prefer a different nut flavor, you can swap the hazelnuts for almonds, pecans, or walnuts in the cookie dough and for rolling. This will give the cookies a different nutty flavor profile while still providing a delicious crunch.

If you don’t have chocolate hazelnut spread like Nutella, you can substitute it with any other type of chocolate spread or even peanut butter for a different flavor twist. Just ensure the spread is creamy and easy to pipe into the cookie indentations. You can also experiment with different flavored spreads to create unique cookie variations. Remember that the quality of the spread will impact the overall taste of the cookies, so choose one that you enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning presentation, serve these Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies on a tiered dessert stand at your next holiday gathering. Pair them with a selection of gourmet teas or coffee to create an elegant afternoon treat for your guests. The addition of a light dusting of powdered sugar over the cookies just before serving will add a touch of festive flair and a hint of sweetness to complement the rich flavors.

To take these cookies to the next level, try sandwiching two cookies together with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of hazelnut ice cream in the middle. This indulgent twist on the classic thumbprint cookie will elevate them to a decadent dessert experience that is sure to impress your family and friends. Serve them as a special treat during a dinner party or celebration for a memorable and delightful ending to the meal.

FAQs for Decadent Hazelnut Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter in this recipe?

It’s best to use unsalted butter in this recipe to control the amount of salt in the cookies. If you only have salted butter on hand, you can reduce the added salt in the recipe to compensate.

Can I substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe?

Almond flour has a different texture and fat content compared to all-purpose flour, which can alter the final result of the cookies. It’s recommended to stick with all-purpose flour for the best texture and flavor.

How long do these cookies stay fresh, and how should I store them?

These cookies can stay fresh for several days if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. To maintain their texture and flavor, you can also store them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and bake the cookies later?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2-3 days or freeze it for longer storage. When ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and baking the cookies.

Conclusion

As you embark on making these delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies, remember that the joy of baking lies not just in the end result but in the process itself. Embrace the opportunity to slow down, savor the aromas wafting from your oven, and enjoy the simple pleasure of creating something delicious from scratch. Your efforts will be handsomely rewarded with a batch of cookies that are sure to impress and delight.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic of chocolate, hazelnuts, and buttery cookie dough unfold in your kitchen. With each perfectly indented cookie, filled with luscious chocolate hazelnut spread and adorned with a crunchy hazelnut garnish, you are creating not just a sweet treat but a moment of pure indulgence. These Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are more than just a recipe – they are a testament to the joy of baking and sharing something truly special with your loved ones. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and the scent of freshly baked cookies!