The Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies are a delightful invitation to experience the rich, buttery textures melded with the elegance of toasted hazelnuts. These cookies offer a comforting blend of nutty flavors, perfect for a cozy evening or as part of your holiday festivities. The drizzled chocolate adds an extra touch of indulgence, ensuring each bite leaves you longing for more.
Table of Contents
Recipe at a Glance
| Best for | Dessert or Snack |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Total time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 24 cookies |
| Key tip | Toast hazelnuts for enhanced flavor |
| Smart swap | Use almond flour for gluten-free option |
What Ingredients Do You Need for Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies?
When it comes to the heart of these cookies, here are the ingredients you’ll need:
| 1 cup unsalted butter | softened |
| 1/2 cup powdered sugar | |
| 2 cups all-purpose flour | |
| 1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts | chopped |
| 1/4 teaspoon salt | |
| 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract | |
| Chocolate for drizzling or dipping (optional) |
The unsalted butter is key for creating a rich, creamy texture, while the toasted hazelnuts add a delightful crunch. Don’t forget the powdered sugar, which lends the cookies that melt-in-your-mouth quality. If desired, drizzling some chocolate on top takes them to a whole new level. Explore this recipe for a delicious dessert twist!
What Equipment Do You Need to Make These Cookies?
– Large mixing bowl
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
– Wire rack for cooling
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Whisk or electric mixer
How Do You Make Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies Step-by-Step?
Creating these cookies is straightforward and rewarding. Follow this simple step-by-step guide to indulge in a batch of these scrumptious treats.
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until fluffy and smooth. This will create a light and airy dough.
| Prep time | 15 minutes |
| Cook time | 12-15 minutes |
| Cooling time | 10 minutes |
| Nutritional value | Approx. 80 calories per cookie |
Step 3
Next, stir in the all-purpose flour, chopped toasted hazelnuts, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky. Roll the dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter. Flatten each ball slightly with your palm and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, melt some chocolate for drizzling over the cooled cookies. Set aside to allow the chocolate to harden before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid + Pro Tips for Success
In my experience of baking, I have encountered several common pitfalls that can turn these delightful cookies into a less-than-perfect treat. No worries though; I’m here to help you avoid them.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Underbaking | Results in cookies that are too soft and prone to falling apart. Ensure they are slightly golden before removing them from the oven. |
| Not toasting hazelnuts | Forgetting to toast hazelnuts misses out on their rich flavor. Toasting enhances their taste significantly. |
| Using cold butter | This can prevent a smooth mixture. Always use softened butter for the best texture. |
Tips for Success
| Check oven temperature | Use an oven thermometer. Accurate temperatures ensure even baking. |
| Chill the dough | If the dough feels too soft, chilling it for a few minutes makes it easier to handle. |
| Use parchment paper | This helps with easy removal and cleanup, preserving cookie shapes. |
Remember, the key to perfect cookies is all in the details.
Why Will You Love This Recipe?
Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies are an indulgence to the senses. They are buttery, crunchy, and simply irresistible. The sweet hazelnut flavor mingles beautifully with the rich chocolate drizzle.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
The combination of butter and toasted hazelnuts creates a delightful flavor profile. The smooth texture of the shortbread paired with a hint of sweetness works perfectly, making these cookies memorable.
A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite
These cookies are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual get-together, their appealing look and taste captivate everyone.
Easy to Customize
You can easily personalize these cookies by adding other flavorings or mix-ins. From a pinch of cinnamon to white chocolate drizzling options, the possibilities are endless.
Fun in the Kitchen
Baking these cookies is a delightful experience. I love involving my kids in the process, and they enjoy helping shape and decorate them. You’ll also learn the simple techniques that make all the difference.
What are the Variations, Serving, and Storage Ideas?
There are many ways to enjoy these delightful cookies. Here’s how you can spice things up!
Flavor Variations
Consider adding a citrus flair by incorporating some lemon zest or orange zest into the dough. You could also swap hazelnuts for chopped almonds for a different nutty flavor. Another idea is to mix in some chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey burst!
Dough Swaps
If you’re aiming for a gluten-free version, consider using almond flour as an alternative to all-purpose flour. You might also experiment with coconut sugar instead of powdered sugar for a slightly different sweetness. Try this recipe for delightful dessert inspiration.
Perfect Serving Suggestions
These cookies shine during holiday gatherings and are delightful with coffee or hot chocolate. For parties, display them on a decorative tray alongside fruits and nuts for a gorgeous spread.
How to Store Your Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For optimal texture, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you need to make them ahead, bake and cool the cookies then store them well, finishing them with chocolate just before serving.
| Variations | Best for | How to do it |
| Add lemon zest | Citrus lovers | Mix in zest with dough |
| Use almond flour | Gluten-free option | Swap 1-for-1 with all-purpose flour |
| Chocolate chip addition | Extra sweetness | Mix in chocolate chips before baking |
More Recipes You Can Try Next
If you’re ready for more delicious adventures in baking, here are a few of my favorites!
| Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies | A soft cookie filled with a rich chocolate center. |
| Espresso Custard Pie | Creamy and rich with a delightful coffee flavor. |
| Slow Cooker Chocolate | Melt-in-your-mouth chocolate with an easy preparation. |
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies offer such a delightful experience that it’s hard to stay away from them. From baking to indulging, this recipe strikes a perfect balance of taste and texture. You’ll get to enjoy the warm, buttery goodness paired with the aromatic hazelnuts that come to life in each bite. Every step in the preparation is simple, making it a fun activity to do with family or friends. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to suit your taste! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it on Pinterest and inspire others to create these delicious cookies!
FAQ
Can I substitute another type of nut?
Yes, you can easily substitute another nut like almonds or walnuts. Just ensure to toast them as you would hazelnuts for the best flavor.
What can I do to make these cookies healthier?
To make these cookies healthier, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You can also reduce the sugar slightly or use a natural sweetener.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
You will know the cookies are done when the edges turn lightly golden. They may look a bit soft in the center, but they will harden as they cool.
Can I freeze the cookies?
While it’s not ideal for maintaining texture, you can freeze the cookies. Just ensure to store them in an airtight container and consume within a month for best quality.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
These cookies remain fresh stored in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature. For best texture, consider using parchment paper between layers.
Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies
A perfect blend of buttery goodness and nutty flavors, these Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies are ideal for cozy snacks or holiday gatherings.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate for drizzling or dipping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until fluffy and smooth.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour, chopped toasted hazelnuts, salt, and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Roll the dough into small balls, flatten slightly, and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, then cool on a wire rack.
- If desired, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies.
Notes
Toast hazelnuts for enhanced flavor. Chill dough if too soft. Use parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Baking
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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