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If you’ve ever found yourself yearning for something sweet but exciting, let me take you on a delightful journey with my Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies. These treats came about on a cozy afternoon when I was daydreaming about the ultimate comfort food. A burst of creativity struck as I decided to merge rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts, and trust me, the results are nothing short of magical!

Imagine the moment you sink your teeth into a warm cookie; it has a chewy center with a crispy outer shell, all enveloping a luscious pool of chocolate hazelnut spread. The explosion of flavors dances on your palate, seamlessly blending intense chocolate richness with the nutty crunch of toasted hazelnuts. You won’t just be making cookies; you’ll be creating memories to share with family and friends alight with the joy of homemade goodness.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is its simplicity—perfect for both seasoned bakers and those just starting out in the kitchen. Each bite is an invitation to savor the pleasures of homemade treats, especially on days that call for a bit of indulgence. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and create something wonderfully delicious!

Why are Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies a Must-Try?

Uniquely Delicious: These cookies bring a delightful twist to traditional recipes with their chewy center and rich chocolate-hazelnut filling.
Easy to Make: Perfect for bakers of all levels, this recipe requires minimal effort and time without skimping on flavor.
Customizable Flavors: Feel free to experiment with alternative fillings like peanut butter or white chocolate ganache for added variety!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for family gatherings, parties, or simply when you’re in need of a treat—everyone will love these cookies!
Vegetarian & Versatile: Easily adapt the recipe to cater to various dietary needs by swapping ingredients for gluten-free or vegan options.
Fresh Out of the Oven: There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh-baked cookies wafting through your kitchen—get ready to impress!

These Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies promise not just a delightful experience, but one that beckons everyone back for seconds. Don’t forget to check out other delicious cookie variations for more inspiration!

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Dutch processed cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; can be swapped with unsweetened cocoa powder if needed.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor by balancing sweetness; don’t skip this step!
• Unsalted butter – Gives moisture and richness; utilize vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Egg yolk – Contributes richness and helps with structure; consider omitting egg white for a vegan treat.
• Milk – Adds moisture and consistency; almond milk is a great non-dairy substitute.
• Powdered sugar – Provides sweetness and lightness; coconut sugar is a healthier alternative, though texture may vary.
• Vanilla extract – Boosts flavor; for a deeper taste, use vanilla bean paste as a richer alternative.
For the Topping
• Finely chopped toasted hazelnuts – Brings crunch and flavor; pecans or walnuts can be used as a substitute if allergies arise.
For the Filling
• Chocolate hazelnut spread – A rich filling that enhances flavor; opt for quality alternatives to Nutella for a healthier spin.

These Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies will not just satisfy your sweet cravings but also ignite your passion for baking!

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Preheat the oven to 180°C (355°F) with a fan or 160°C (320°F) without. This step is crucial for even baking and achieving that perfect cookie texture.
Line two large baking trays with baking paper. This keeps your cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
Whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Ensure there are no lumps, as this will create a smooth dough later on.
Beat unsalted butter, powdered sugar, egg yolk, and milk in a separate bowl on high speed until fluffy and pale, about 3 minutes. This step adds air and lightness to the cookies.
Roll the dough into approximately 30 balls, each about 1.5 tablespoons in size. An ice cream scoop helps with uniformity and ease!
Coat each ball in crushed toasted hazelnuts, then space them out evenly on the lined trays. This lovely layer adds texture and a delightful crunch.
Chill the rolled dough on a lined tray in the fridge for 1 hour. Chilling is vital for keeping your cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
Bake one tray at a time for 8 minutes; resist the urge to flatten before baking, as they will puff up beautifully!
Indent each cookie with a measuring spoon immediately after baking, then let them cool completely. This creates the perfect spot for your delicious filling.
Fill the indented center with your choice of hazelnut spread using a spoon or piping bag. Be generous; this is the highlight of your cookies!

Optional: Sprinkle a few extra chopped hazelnuts on top for an even more delightful presentation.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Variations

Get ready to elevate your baking game with delicious twists that will make these cookies even more irresistible!

Nut Variations: Swap hazelnuts for almonds or pecans to explore different flavor profiles that will surprise your taste buds.
Filling Alternatives: Fill cookies with peanut butter or a white chocolate ganache for a delightful change that adds a creamy, indulgent touch.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of cinnamon to the dough for a warm and cozy flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Fruit Flavor: Replace the filling with raspberry jam or any fruit preserves for a fruity contrast that brightens each bite.
Oatmeal Crunch: Mix in a handful of rolled oats into the dough for added texture, giving your cookies a heartier feel.
Coffee Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the dough for a delightful mocha flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
Zesty Twist: Incorporate a bit of orange zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the overall flavor.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream or an alternative nut butter as a filling for a unique twist that keeps it dairy-free yet delicious.

With so many exciting variations, these Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies become a canvas for your creativity and flavors!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Chill the Dough: Always chill the dough for an hour before baking; this helps maintain shape and prevents excessive spreading.
Weigh Ingredients: For the most accurate results, weigh your ingredients instead of using cup measurements, as they can vary significantly.
Opt for Quality Spread: Avoid everyday brands like Nutella; select a higher quality chocolate hazelnut spread for a richer, more satisfying flavor.
Indent Warm Cookies: Indent the cookies while they’re still warm from the oven. This ensures a perfect shape, preventing fragile cookies when filled.
Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to customize with other fillings; consider peanut butter or fruit preserves for a unique twist on your thumbprint cookies.

Storage Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to retain their chewy texture and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy these indulgent treats later, freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag with layers of parchment paper in between.

Thawing: To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This will bring back their delightful texture without compromising the taste.

Reheating: For that freshly baked feel, briefly microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds, just until warm before savoring your Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies.

What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?

Indulging in these sweet delights transforms your dessert time into a delightful experience of textures and flavors. Here’s what can elevate your experience even more.

Freshly Brewed Coffee: The rich notes of coffee perfectly complement the chocolatey goodness, enhancing each bite with warmth.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast, cooling off the cookies’ warmth and amplifying the flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted chocolate over the cookies adds another layer of decadence, perfect for the chocolate lover!
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of berries and citrus is the perfect palate cleanser, balancing the cookies’ sweetness and adding a burst of freshness.
Hazelnut Milkshake: This creamy treat echoes the ingredients of the cookies, making it a delightful pairing that your taste buds will thank you for.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce adds a buttery sweetness that deepens the flavor experience, making every bite satisfyingly indulgent.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea offer a harmonious blend with the cookies’ flavors, creating a cozy atmosphere for any gathering or afternoon treat.

Each of these pairings invites you to explore the delightful world of flavors that harmonize beautifully with Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by rolling it into balls and chilling them in the refrigerator. This not only saves time on busy baking days but also helps maintain the cookie’s structure. Once you’re ready to bake, simply take the chilled dough from the fridge, coat it in crushed hazelnuts, bake, and then fill it with the hazelnut spread once cooled. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies with minimal effort, just as delightful as if made the same day!

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my cookies?
Absolutely! Selecting the right ingredients can make all the difference. For the unsalted butter, ensure it’s at room temperature, soft to the touch, which will help achieve that fluffy texture when creamed. Fresh ingredients like flour and cocoa powder should be stored properly and not past their expiration dates. For the hazelnuts, look for ones that are crunchy and aromatic; avoid any with dark spots, which may indicate spoilage.

How should I store my Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?
To maintain their delightful chewy texture, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This prevents them from becoming stale while keeping their flavors intact. A cool, dry place works best! If you have extra cookies, you can freeze them for up to 2 months for a later treat—just make sure to layer them with parchment paper so they don’t stick together.

Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how?
Yes! Freezing is an excellent way to save your delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Next, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before indulging!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very common! If you find your cookies spreading excessively, it usually indicates that the dough wasn’t chilled long enough. Always be sure to chill rolled dough in the refrigerator for at least an hour before baking to help them maintain shape. Also, check that your butter was softened but not melted, as melted butter can lead to a flatter cookie. If they still flatten, don’t stress; just enjoy the delicious results!

Are these cookies safe for pets or anyone with nut allergies?
It’s important to note that these Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies contain hazelnuts and chocolate, which are not suitable for pets. Additionally, those with nut allergies should avoid the hazelnuts altogether. As an easy alternative, you can experiment with oatmeal or a fruit-based filling instead for a nut-free variation that still satisfies your sweet tooth!

Can I modify the recipe for a healthier option?
Absolutely! You can opt for healthier alternatives by substituting sugar with coconut sugar or using a non-palm oil chocolate hazelnut spread. For gluten-free options, simply use a blend of gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. Additionally, consider egg replacements like flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan version or to reduce cholesterol. Your cookies can still be delicious while aligning with your dietary preferences!