Name: Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies to Savor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (coconut sugar can be used for deeper flavor); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (opt for pure vanilla for best results); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (gluten-free blends can be substituted); 1/2 cup Cocoa Powder (Dutch-processed cocoa offers a milder taste); 1 pinch Salt (optional if using salted butter); 1 cup Hazelnuts (finely chopped) (substitute with almonds or walnuts if desired); 1 cup Chocolate Hazelnut Spread (can be substituted with fruit jams or caramel); Whole Hazelnuts (optional for garnish)

As I pulled a tray of cookies from the oven, the rich aroma of chocolate mingled with the nutty scent of toasted hazelnuts, instantly transporting me to a cozy European café. These Indulgent Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect way to elevate your baking game, offering an easy yet impressive treat that’s ideal for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delightful batch that combines a buttery, cocoa-infused dough with a luscious center of chocolate hazelnut spread. Whether you’re looking for a special gift or a sweet everyday snack, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. And the best part? They’re quick to prepare and freezer-friendly, making them a convenient indulgence to have on hand. Curious about how to create these irresistible bites of joy? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Buttery Dough: The rich, cocoa-infused base brings a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience that chocolate lovers will adore.

Indulgent Filling: The creamy chocolate hazelnut spread at the center creates a decadent explosion of flavor with every bite.

Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap the chocolate hazelnut spread for fruit jams or caramel, making each batch uniquely yours!

Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, gifting, or simply indulging yourself—you can’t resist sharing these beauties.

Quick and Convenient: This recipe requires minimal prep time and is designed to be freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes!

These cookies easily fit in with other delightful treats like Lemon Pistachio Cookies or Chocolate Avocado Truffles, making them perfect for diverse dessert platters.

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and flavor; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and texture; coconut sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for best results.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookie; gluten-free flour blends can be substituted.
Cocoa Powder – Infuses the dough with chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed cocoa offers a milder taste.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; it’s optional if using salted butter.

For the Coating and Filling

Hazelnuts (finely chopped) – Coats the cookies for a delightful crunch; substitute with almonds or walnuts as desired.
Chocolate Hazelnut Spread – Provides the rich filling; you can also use fruit jams or caramel for a different flavor.
Whole Hazelnuts (optional for garnish) – Adds texture and visual appeal to your cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dough
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Step 2: Shape Cookies
Once your dough is ready, scoop out a tablespoon of it and roll it into a ball in your hands. Repeat this process, spacing the cookie balls about 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Next, take the finely chopped hazelnuts and roll each ball into them, ensuring they’re well-coated for added crunch and flavor.

Step 3: Create Indentation
Using a rounded measuring spoon, gently press your thumb into the center of each cookie ball, creating a small indentation. This thumbprint will hold the delicious filling later. Be careful not to press too hard; you want to maintain the shape of the cookie while ensuring it’s deep enough for a good amount of chocolate hazelnut spread.

Step 4: Bake
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until they appear set and slightly firm to the touch. Watch closely; you want them to have a soft but baked appearance. As soon as you remove them from the oven, re-press the thumbprint gently if it has puffed up during baking to create a deeper well for the filling.

Step 5: Fill
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they are cool, use a small spoon to fill each thumbprint with a generous dollop of chocolate hazelnut spread, allowing it to ooze beautifully into the center.

Step 6: Garnish
For an elegant finish, optionally top each filled cookie with a whole hazelnut or a light dusting of powdered sugar. This extra touch not only enhances the flavors but also makes your Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies visually stunning and perfect for gifting or sharing at your next gathering.

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists that take your cookies to a whole new level!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan margarine, making these treats suitable for lactose intolerance without sacrificing taste.
Add a splash of almond milk for extra moisture if needed; the flavor will still shine through beautifully.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
This ensures that no one has to miss out on the joy of these cookies, making it perfect for gatherings.
Nut-Free: If allergies are a concern, replace hazelnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free crunch.
Toasted seeds add a wonderful texture and flavor that perfectly complement the cookies.
Flavor Boost: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange zest into the dough to add a refreshing citrus twist.
The bright flavor plays harmoniously with the chocolate and hazelnuts, creating an unforgettable taste sensation.
Fruity Twist: Swap chocolate hazelnut spread for fruit jams like raspberry or strawberry for a fruity surprise.
This delightful change brightens the flavors and adds a lovely, tart contrast that everyone will adore!
Caramel Center: For a touch of indulgence, fill the thumbprints with gooey caramel or dulce de leche instead.
The combination of rich chocolate with sweet caramel creates an enchanting blend that’s simply irresistible.
Cocoa Variation: Experiment with using dark cocoa powder in place of regular cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
These cookies will turn into deep, decadent bites that chocolate lovers will savor with every crumb.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough for an unexpected heat that elevates the chocolate flavors.
This can make each bite an adventure, surprising your guests and leaving them asking for your baking secrets!

Feel inspired to create unique batches? These variations pair beautifully with other treats like Cotton Candy Cookies for a fun dessert platter, or you might find yourself tempted to whip up another batch of Meringue Pie Cookies to share. Enjoy your baking adventure!

What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Transform your indulgent cookies into a memorable meal experience by pairing them with delightful accompaniments.

Rich Coffee: The bitterness of black coffee enhances the sweet chocolate hazelnut filling, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla adds a creamy, cool contrast to the warm, chewy cookies, making every bite extra luxurious.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries cut through the sweetness and add a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the cookies beautifully.

Feel free to create a cozy dessert spread with a mix of flavors and textures. These cookies shine next to a slice of berry tart or a chocolate mousse, inviting your guests to indulge fully.

Red Dessert Wine: A glass of rich, fruity dessert wine elevates the experience, enhancing the nutty and chocolate notes of the cookies.

Every aspect of your dessert table becomes a conversation starter with these glorious bites, ensuring an unforgettable culinary experience!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is soft and at room temperature for easy creaming, creating a light and fluffy dough.
Chop Hazelnuts Finely: Finely chopping hazelnuts helps them adhere better to the dough, ensuring every bite has that delightful crunch.
Repress Indentions: Repress the thumbprint indentations while the cookies are warm, maintaining a deep pocket to hold the rich chocolate hazelnut spread filling.
Freeze for Freshness: Consider freezing extra cookies after baking; they can last up to three months and will taste freshly baked when thawed.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the timer—bake just until the cookies appear set to preserve their chewy center and avoid overbaking.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Additionally, once baked, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, making them great for keeping on hand for an unexpected sweet craving. When you’re ready to fill them, just let them cool completely, then add the chocolate hazelnut spread to each thumbprint. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavor with minimal effort on busy days!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and soft.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 2 weeks, but allow them to reach room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), then heat them for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the chocolate hazelnut filling to become gooey once again.

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best hazelnuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for hazelnuts that are plump and unblemished, avoiding those with dark spots or signs of moisture damage. Fresh, toasted hazelnuts will offer the best flavor. If possible, purchase them from a reputable store or the bulk section to ensure quality.

How long can I store Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider refrigeration for up to 2 weeks or freezing for up to 3 months for maximum freshness.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! To freeze the cookie dough, shape it into balls and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm. After about 1-2 hours, transfer the frozen balls to a freezer-safe bag. You can bake them directly from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for optimal results.

What can I do if my cookies spread too much during baking?
Very commonly, this can happen if the butter is too warm before baking or if the dough hasn’t chilled enough. For next time, I recommend chilling the formed dough balls for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps them maintain their shape and achieve that delightful, chewy texture.

Are there any nut-free alternatives I can use?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to nut-free preferences, replace chopped hazelnuts with seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunch. Be mindful to select a chocolate spread that is free from nut ingredients, as well, such as a sunflower seed spread or a fruit jam.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen cookies?
To enjoy your frozen Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies warm and gooey, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place them directly from the freezer to the baking sheet. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the chocolate filling to melt back to that irresistible gooeyness.