Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup finely chopped hazelnuts (for rolling); 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread

Published: December 31, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate and hazelnuts creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip these cookies up in no time.
Perfect for Gifting: Pack these cookies in a cute box or jar for a thoughtful homemade gift that impresses.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them at any gathering or as an everyday snack with coffee or tea.
Fun to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or mix-ins for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Whisk
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Cookie scoop or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Electric mixer: Helps achieve the perfect creamy texture by efficiently blending butter and sugar.
Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Cookie scoop or spoon: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup hazelnuts, finely chopped (for rolling)
1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
Extra whole hazelnuts for garnish (optional)

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients into Butter Mixture

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined. The dough should feel firm yet pliable.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in finely chopped hazelnuts until fully coated. Place them on prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Create Indentations

Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to press an indentation into the center of each cookie ball gently.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-14 minutes. The cookies should be set but remain soft.

Step 8: Add Chocolate Filling

Once removed from the oven while still warm, re-press any puffed-up indentations. Spoon about a teaspoon of chocolate hazelnut spread into each cookie’s center. Optionally, press a whole hazelnut into the spread for added flavor and decoration.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies!

How to Serve Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

These delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a party or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat. The creamy texture complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully.

On a Dessert Platter

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter alongside other treats. This makes for an impressive display at gatherings and parties.

As Party Favors

Package the cookies in cute boxes or bags as gifts for guests. They make thoughtful and delicious party favors that everyone will love.

With Fresh Berries

Serve the cookies alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

With Coffee or Tea

Enjoy these cookies with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverage enhances the hazelnut and chocolate flavors in each bite.

Topped with Whipped Cream

Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie before serving. This extra layer makes them even more indulgent and satisfying.

How to Perfect Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Perfecting your Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out amazing every time!

Use Room Temperature Butter: This helps in creaming the butter and sugar effectively, leading to light and fluffy cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dry ingredients just until combined with the wet ingredients to keep your cookies tender.
Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before shaping. This helps prevent spreading during baking.
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, resulting in perfectly baked cookies.
Adjust Indentation Depth: Make sure your indentations are deep enough to hold the filling without breaking through.
Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies can be paired with various side dishes to create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that complements the cookie’s rich flavors beautifully.
Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote made from berries or stone fruits provides a sweet and tangy contrast.
Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or camembert for a savory balance against the sweet cookies.
Chocolate Fondue: Serve with fresh fruits and marshmallows for dipping along with your cookies for extra indulgence.
Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake pairs well, especially for brunch gatherings where these cookies might be served.
Mixed Nuts: A bowl of mixed nuts offers crunch and saltiness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the thumbprint cookies.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each cookie before serving for an extra touch of decadence.
Hot Cocoa: For colder days, serve these cookies with homemade hot cocoa for a cozy treat that warms you up!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with delicate recipes like Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them.

Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using the wrong amounts can ruin your cookies. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements.
Skipping the Chilling Step: If you don’t chill the dough, cookies may spread too much while baking. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter can affect the creaming process. Always ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best results.
Ignoring Oven Temperature: An inaccurate oven temperature can result in overbaking or underbaking. Use an oven thermometer to check accuracy.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Freeze cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Layer parchment paper between cookies to keep them from freezing together.

Reheating Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat.
Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts in the Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with walnuts or pecans if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How should I store leftover Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze them for longer shelf life.

What type of chocolate hazelnut spread works best?

A high-quality spread like Nutella is ideal, as it melts beautifully and enhances the flavor of the cookies.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Are Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! These cookies are perfect for gifts due to their delightful presentation and delicious taste.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different fillings or nuts based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving these at a party or gifting them, they’re sure to impress! Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors and textures they offer.

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