Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful combination of buttery, nutty cookies with a rich, chocolatey hazelnut filling. These cookies have a crisp yet tender texture and a decadent Nutella or chocolate ganache center, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether served with coffee, as a holiday dessert, or just as an indulgent snack, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich chocolate and hazelnut flavor – A classic and irresistible combination.
  • Perfect texture – Buttery, slightly crisp cookies with a smooth, creamy filling.
  • Easy to make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
  • Great for any occasion – Perfect for holidays, gifting, or an everyday treat.
  • Customizable – Fill with Nutella, chocolate ganache, or even caramel.
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe 10 Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful combination of buttery, nutty cookies with a rich, chocolatey hazelnut filling. These cookies have a crisp yet tender texture and a decadent Nutella or chocolate ganache center, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether served with coffee, as a holiday dessert, or just as an indulgent snack, these cookies are sure to impress.


Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Unsalted butter (softened)
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Egg yolk
  • Vanilla extract
  • All-purpose flour
  • Ground hazelnuts
  • Salt
  • Nutella or chocolate ganache (for filling)
  • Chopped hazelnuts (for garnish, optional)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Dough
    • In a bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, ground hazelnuts, and salt.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until combined.
  3. Shape the Cookies
    • Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
    • Press your thumb or the back of a spoon into each ball to create an indentation.
  4. Chill and Bake
    • Refrigerate the shaped dough for 15-20 minutes to help retain shape.
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.
  5. Fill the Cookies
    • Let cookies cool slightly before filling the indentations with Nutella or chocolate ganache.
    • Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts if desired.
  6. Serve and Enjoy
    • Allow the filling to set slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Makes about 20 cookies
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 20 minutes
  • Bake Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

  • Salted Caramel Thumbprints – Fill with caramel and a pinch of sea salt.
  • Double Chocolate – Add cocoa powder to the dough for extra chocolate flavor.
  • Nut-Free Option – Substitute ground hazelnuts with almond flour or extra flour.
  • Espresso Infusion – Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a coffee twist.
  • White Chocolate Filling – Use melted white chocolate for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Refrigeration: Keeps fresh for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Reheating: Warm slightly in the microwave for a softer filling.
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe 11 Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful combination of buttery, nutty cookies with a rich, chocolatey hazelnut filling. These cookies have a crisp yet tender texture and a decadent Nutella or chocolate ganache center, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether served with coffee, as a holiday dessert, or just as an indulgent snack, these cookies are sure to impress.


FAQs

Can I use store-bought ground hazelnuts?

Yes, or you can finely grind whole hazelnuts in a food processor.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough before baking helps maintain their shape.

What’s the best way to fill the cookies neatly?

Use a piping bag or a small spoon for precise filling.

Can I use a different nut instead of hazelnuts?

Yes, almonds or pecans work well too.

Do I have to toast the hazelnuts?

Toasting enhances the flavor, but it’s optional.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

How do I get a smoother ganache filling?

Use heavy cream to melt the chocolate for a silky texture.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but dark chocolate provides a richer contrast to the sweet cookie.

What pairs well with these cookies?

They go great with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.

Conclusion

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful, nutty, and chocolatey treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and luscious filling, these cookies will quickly become a favorite. Try different variations and enjoy this simple yet elegant dessert!

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Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

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  • Author: Kim Cooks Easy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, European
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are soft, buttery, and packed with roasted hazelnut flavor. Each cookie is rolled in chopped hazelnuts and filled with a luscious chocolate-hazelnut spread (like Nutella!). They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • For the Cookies:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup finely chopped hazelnuts (for rolling)
  • For the Filling:
  • 1/2 cup chocolate-hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
  • 2 ounces dark chocolate, melted (optional, for drizzle)

Instructions

  • Preheat & Prep:
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Make the Dough:
  • In a large bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.
  • Mix in egg yolks and vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  • Shape & Coat the Cookies:
  • Roll dough into 1-inch balls.
  • Roll each ball in chopped hazelnuts, pressing slightly so they stick.
  • Place on the baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
  • Create the Thumbprints:
  • Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press an indentation in the center of each cookie.
  • Bake:
  • Bake for 10–12 minutes, until cookies are set but not browned.
  • If the indentations puff up, press them down again gently while warm.
  • Let cookies cool completely.
  • Fill with Chocolate:
  • Spoon or pipe chocolate-hazelnut spread into the center of each cookie.
  • Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for extra indulgence (optional).

Notes

  • For extra crunch, toast hazelnuts before chopping.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 5 days.
  • Variations: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough or a sprinkle of sea salt on top!
  • Recipe Details

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~160
  • Sugar: ~9g
  • Sodium: ~30mg
  • Fat: ~10g
  • Saturated Fat: ~5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~4g
  • Trans Fat: ~0g
  • Carbohydrates: ~16g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Protein: ~2g
  • Cholesterol: ~25mg

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