Print

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
Print Recipe

These Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies feature a perfectly balanced combination of crumbly buttery dough and a luscious gooey chocolate hazelnut center. Easy to make with simple pantry staples, they deliver rich nutty warmth and irresistible chocolate flavor in every bite. Ideal for holidays, gatherings, or any sweet craving, these cookies are kid-friendly and a delight to bake and share.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Filling and Toppings

  • Chocolate hazelnut spread (about 1/3 cup)
  • Chopped hazelnuts (optional, about 2 tablespoons)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Cream together the softened unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy. Stir in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing just until combined to form a soft dough. Avoid overmixing for tender cookies.
  2. Shape the Cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently create an indentation in the center of each ball without pressing all the way through.
  3. Fill the Centers: Fill each thumbprint with a small dollop of chocolate hazelnut spread, ensuring the filling stays in the well and does not overflow during baking. Optionally, sprinkle chopped hazelnuts over the top for added crunch.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are golden and the cookie base is firm while the centers remain gooey. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, enjoy these delightful cookies with milk, coffee, or share with friends for a sweet treat.

Notes

  • Chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping to prevent spreading and help maintain shape.
  • Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and better crumb.
  • Do not overfill the centers to avoid spilling and burning of the filling.
  • Make a generous but shallow indentation to keep the filling sealed during baking.
  • Use a cookie scoop for uniform-sized balls to ensure even baking.
  • Check cookies a couple of minutes early as oven temperatures vary.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies, Thumbprint Cookies, Hazelnut Chocolate Spread Cookies, Holiday Cookies, Nutty Cookies

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/chocolate-hazelnut-thumbprint-cookies/