Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate and nutty hazelnuts. Their crumbly texture makes them a delightful treat for any evening snack, holiday gathering, or coffee break. Did you know that adding a drizzle of chocolate can elevate these cookies to a gourmet experience? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Table of Contents
Recipe at a Glance
| Best for | Holiday treats and gatherings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Total time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 24 cookies |
| Key tip | Do not overbake for the best texture |
| Smart swap | Use almond flour for a gluten-free version |
What Ingredients Do You Need for Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies?
“You’ll love how simple it is to create these indulgent cookies with everyday 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) |
The star ingredients of these cookies are unsalted butter and hazelnuts. The butter provides a rich, creamy texture that is essential for shortbread, while the toasted hazelnuts bring a delightful crunch and warm flavor. You can even substitute almond flour for a gluten-free version that still tastes sensational. Don’t forget the chocolate drizzle to make every bite a bit more decadent!
Equipment Needed
– Mixing bowl
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Rolling pin
– Cookie cutter (optional)
How Do You Make Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies Step by Step?
Follow these simple steps for a bakery-style cookie right from your kitchen.
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your cookie dough.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. This step is crucial for a light texture.
| Prep time | 10 minutes |
| Cook time | 15 minutes |
| Store time | 1 week |
| Nutritional values | 120 calories per cookie |
Step 3
Stir in the all-purpose flour, chopped hazelnuts, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined. The dough will be quite thick. Once mixed, roll the dough into small balls, about one inch in size, and flatten them slightly on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The smell will flood your kitchen with warmth! Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before drizzling or dipping in melted chocolate. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid + Pro Tips for Success
Making these Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies is fun, but I have learned a thing or two along the way! Avoiding common pitfalls will ensure you create a beautiful and delicious cookie every time.
Mistakes to Avoid
– **Using cold butter:** This can lead to a dense cookie. Always let your butter soften at room temperature.
– **Overmixing the dough:** This can develop gluten, resulting in tougher cookies. Mix just until combined.
– **Not letting them cool:** If you don’t let the cookies cool properly, they can crumble when you try to drizzle with chocolate.
Tips for Success
– **Chill the dough:** If your dough feels too soft, chilling it for 30 minutes can help shape the cookies more easily.
– **Use fresh hazelnuts:** Toasting your hazelnuts brings out their natural oils and enhances the flavor.
– **Adjust baking time:** Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake to prevent over-baking.
The most important takeaway? Pay attention to your ingredients and baking time for an irresistible cookie experience!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies are an absolute delight. Their buttery texture pairs perfectly with the crunch of hazelnuts and the richness of chocolate. Each bite is a celebration of flavor.
Nutty Goodness
The toasted hazelnuts add an incredible depth to each cookie. Their natural oils provide richness that complements the buttery base beautifully.
Chocolate Indulgence
Drizzling chocolate on top takes these cookies over the top. It adds a delightful sweetness that balances the nutty flavors.
Versatile and Fun
Whether you’re hosting a cookie swap, preparing a cozy dessert, or filling lunchboxes, these cookies fit every occasion. They’re great year-round!
A Personal Connection
These cookies remind me of cozy get-togethers with family during holidays. You will also learn how to make a simple but effective chocolate drizzle to enhance your cookies even further.
Delicious Variations, Serving, and Storage Ideas
Exploring the different ways you can enjoy these cookies has been an exciting journey for me; you can also create unique combinations!
Nutty Variations
Consider variations like adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra flavor, or mix in different nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for more texture. You could even replace some flour with cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist!
Ingredient Swaps
If you’re looking to modify the recipe, try using coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option, or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative. These swaps maintain the texture while giving a unique flavor profile.
Check out this drink recipe to pair with your cookies!
Serving Suggestions
These cookies shine in holiday gatherings served on pretty platters. They also make delightful gifts packaged in festive tins. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a charming afternoon treat.
Storage Recommendations
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They are best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal texture and flavor. For added enjoyment later, warm them slightly in the microwave to regain some softness.
| Variation | Best for | How to do it |
| Chocolate Chip Addition | Extra sweetness | Add chocolate chips to the dough |
| Salted Hazelnuts | More flavor depth | Use salted nuts for contrast |
| Cocoa Twist | Chocolate lovers | Replace some flour with cocoa |
| Gift Packaging | Home-baked gifts | Pack in festive cookie tins |
More Recipes You Can Try Next
If you’re inspired to bake up more delicious treats, here are a few great recipes to try next.
| Homemade Vanilla Sweet Cream Coffee Creamer | This creamy addition will elevate your morning coffee experience. |
| Creamy Grapefruit Parfait | A refreshing and light dessert that balances the sweetness of cookies. |
| Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso | This energizing drink pairs perfectly with cookies for afternoon treats. |
Final thoughts
Baking these Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies has brought joy to my kitchen and heart. The rich, nutty flavor combined with the buttery texture is truly unbeatable. These cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying all to yourself!
Remember to keep them fresh in an airtight container and serve with a cup of tea for the ultimate treat. If you enjoyed this recipe, feel free to check out more tasty ideas on my Pinterest page! Follow here.
FAQ
Can I use unsalted margarine instead of butter?
You can use unsalted margarine as an alternative in this recipe. However, the texture and flavor might be slightly different as margarine has a higher water content. For best results, make sure to use a high-quality margarine that closely mimics the characteristics of butter. Replace it in the same quantity as the butter called for.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
To make Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies vegan, you can substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. Also, replace the powdered sugar with a vegan powdered sugar alternative. These swaps will maintain the delicious flavor and texture.
How should I store these cookies?
Store Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain crunchiness, avoid refrigeration as it can soften the cookies. If you want to enjoy them later, place them in a cool and dry spot.
What chocolate should I use for drizzling?
For drizzling, you can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate depending on your preference. Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in short intervals or use a double boiler for even heating. Drizzle over the cookies once they have cooled.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. Just roll the cookie balls, chill them, and bake when you are ready to enjoy them. You can also bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies
Irresistibly delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies that deliver a melt-in-your-mouth experience with a nutty twist.
- 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) while you prepare your cookie dough.
- Cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Stir in the flour, chopped hazelnuts, salt, and vanilla until well combined. Roll the dough into small balls and flatten slightly on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on a wire rack before drizzling or dipping in melted chocolate.
Notes
Avoid using cold butter and overmixing the dough to maintain the right texture. Chill the dough if needed for ease in shaping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg