As I wandered through the bustling holiday market, I caught a whiff of roasted hazelnuts mingling with rich chocolate. Oh, the memories! This inspired me to recreate those delightful treats at home, leading me to these delectable Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies. With a chewy center and crisp edges, each cookie is cloaked in a glossy chocolate coating and finished off with a crunchy hazelnut topping. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; they make perfect edible gifts for loved ones or a heartwarming addition to any cookie exchange. Plus, they’re a charmingly homemade alternative to store-bought options, making it hard to resist the urge to share—or keep them all for yourself! Curious about how to whip up these irresistible cookies? Let’s get baking!
Why Will You Love These Cookies?
Irresistible Flavor: The decadent blend of rich chocolate and toasted hazelnuts creates a heavenly taste sensation that keeps you coming back for more.
Perfect Edible Gift: These cookies are not just dessert; they make thoughtful gifts that delight friends and family during the festive season.
Quick and Easy: The recipe is straightforward, requiring just a few simple steps, perfect for busy home cooks.
Versatile Customization: Feel free to switch it up by using almonds instead of hazelnuts or incorporating spices for a seasonal twist—your creativity can shine!
Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are a hit at any gathering, whether it’s a cookie exchange or a family get-together, just like my beloved Chocolate Chip Cookies. You can’t go wrong!
Indulge in these Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies for a taste of holiday joy that everyone will love!
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to create a holiday masterpiece!
For the Cookie Dough
- Butter – Provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to the chewy cookie texture.
- Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness and adds a deeper flavor while creating a softer center.
- Egg – Acts as a binder, adding moisture to the dough for a perfect consistency.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses wonderful flavor; can be swapped with almond extract for a unique twist.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cookies; avoid over-substituting with whole wheat to maintain texture.
- Cocoa Powder – Provides rich chocolate flavor; consider using Dutch-process for a smoother taste.
- Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps achieve a light and airy texture.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavors of the cookies.
For the Crunchy Finish
- Hazelnuts – Adds a delightful crunch and flavor; roasting them first brings out the best taste. Substitute with almonds or pecans if desired, but these are essential for the classic recipe!
- Dark Chocolate (60-70% cacao) – Used for an indulgent coating; mixing with coconut oil gives a beautiful glossy finish.
Embrace the joy of baking with these Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies, and watch as they become a cherished staple in your holiday tradition!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Hazelnuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet. Roast for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and fragrant. Once they cool, rub them with a kitchen towel to remove the skins. Chop them unevenly and divide them into two portions—one for the cookie dough and one for topping.
Step 2: Make Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy—this should take about 3 minutes. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture along with the chopped hazelnuts designated for the dough.
Step 3: Shape Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the chocolate hazelnut cookie dough and roll them into smooth discs. Place them on a lined baking sheet, pressing each disc slightly to create an even shape for uniform baking. Ensure there’s adequate spacing between the cookies, as they will spread during baking—aim for about 2 inches apart.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should look set, while the centers will remain soft. Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Coat in Chocolate
While the cookies cool, melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20 seconds to avoid burning. If desired, mix in a small amount of coconut oil for a glossy finish. Once melted, dip each cooled cookie halfway into the chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off back into the bowl.
Step 6: Finish with Topping
While the chocolate coating is still soft, sprinkle the reserved chopped hazelnuts on top of each cookie, pressing gently so they adhere. Let the cookies set at room temperature until the chocolate hardens, or speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. Enjoy your delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix it and refrigerate it in an airtight container. The chopped hazelnuts can also be roasted ahead of time (up to 3 days), ensuring that they retain their delightful crunch. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop and shape the dough, then proceed as directed. For a truly fresh finish, coat the cookies in chocolate and top with hazelnuts shortly before serving to keep them just as delicious. Enjoy the convenience of having these festive treats ready to go!
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Variations
Get ready to customize these cookies with delightful tweaks that will take them to a whole new level!
- Flavor Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of instant espresso powder for a rich coffee flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate and hazelnuts.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute the hazelnuts with sunflower seeds to create a delightful nut-free version, perfect for those with allergies.
- Spiced Sensation: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, seasonal flavor that evokes cozy memories during the holidays.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil instead of butter, and choose dairy-free dark chocolate for a delicious vegan alternative.
- Add Zest: Brighten the flavor profile by mixing in some orange or lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing twist.
- Gooey Center: For an extra indulgent treat, place a small piece of chocolate inside each cookie before baking for a melty center.
- Crunchy Topping: Instead of just hazelnuts, consider using crushed pretzels or crushed toffee bits for an exciting textural contrast.
- Fruity Surprise: Incorporate dried cherries or cranberries into the dough for added sweetness and a pop of color, reminiscent of holiday cheer.
As you explore these variations, remember those beloved Chocolate Chip Cookies that everyone raves about! Each twist offers a new experience that your friends and family will appreciate during the festive season!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness and delightful crunch.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the dipped cookies in a single layer with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking—these Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies can last up to 3 months!
Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. This will rejuvenate their delightful texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies
- Roast Hazelnuts Properly: Always roast hazelnuts for the best flavor. Raw hazelnuts can result in bland cookies—your senses will thank you!
- Cool Before Dipping: Ensure cookies are completely cool before dipping into chocolate. Warm cookies can cause the chocolate to slide off, ruining that glossy finish.
- Choose the Right Chocolate: For a firmer chocolate coating, avoid using Nutella. Stick with dark chocolate for a richer flavor and better durability.
- Don’t Overmix Dough: When incorporating dry ingredients, mix just until combined to maintain that chewy texture in your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies.
- Storage Matters: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, but freeze extras for longer freshness and enjoyment later!
What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies
Treat your senses to a delightful meal experience with these exquisite cookies as the centerpiece.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of rich hot chocolate for a cozy treat on chilly nights. The smooth cocoa enhances the chocolatey goodness of the cookies wonderfully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings an irresistible contrast to the crunchy textures. The ice cream’s chill balances the warmth of freshly baked cookies, creating a heavenly dessert duo.
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Berry Salad: A refreshing berry salad adds a burst of color and tangy sweetness. The freshness of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries complements the rich chocolate flavors beautifully, offering a palate-cleansing bite.
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Coffee or Espresso: Enjoy these cookies with a robust cup of coffee or a shot of espresso. The bitterness of the coffee highlights the cookie’s chocolate and hazelnut notes, making each bite more satisfying.
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Cheese Platter: Create a fancy cheese platter with brie and fig jam. The creaminess of the cheese and sweetness of the jam contrast perfectly with the cookies, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Red Wine: A glass of fruity red wine makes a sophisticated pairing, enhancing the chocolate flavor and adding depth to the dessert experience. The rich, velvety experience is simply divine!
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right hazelnuts?
Absolutely! When selecting hazelnuts for your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies, look for nuts that are plump and have a lightly toasted skin. Avoid any hazelnuts that have dark spots all over or smells rancid, as these can indicate they are past their prime. Roasting them is essential to intensify their flavor and ensure a crunchy texture.
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How should I store my cookies?
Very! To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their chewy center and crisp edges. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them—just layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking and store in a single layer for easy access!
Can I freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, first let them cool completely after baking. Then, dip them in chocolate as per the recipe instructions, and place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once set, transfer them to an airtight container, layering parchment between cookies to keep them from sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies are spreading too much in the oven, it could be due to the butter being too warm or not using enough flour in the dough. Try chilling the formed cookies in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps solidify the butter and prevents excessive spreading. Also, ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly—one cup of flour should weigh about 120 grams.
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Very! This recipe contains common allergens such as gluten from the all-purpose flour, dairy from the butter, and nuts from the hazelnuts. If you are making these for someone with allergies, consider substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and using vegan butter to cater to those dietary restrictions. Make sure that all ingredients are labeled gluten-free or nut-free, depending on your needs!
Can I substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate?
For sure! If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can absolutely use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for coating your cookies. However, keep in mind that this may alter the overall taste and texture slightly, making them richer and creamier. You could also try a mix, using both dark and milk chocolate for an exciting blend!
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies for Irresistible Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet. Roast for about 10 minutes, then cool and chop.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mix well.
- Sift flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then fold these into the wet mixture along with the chopped hazelnuts for the dough.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into discs, placing them spaced on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are set. Cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Melt dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, and dip each cooled cookie halfway into the chocolate.
- Sprinkle reserved chopped hazelnuts on top of each cookie while the chocolate is soft. Let set at room temperature or refrigerate.
