Easy Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies for the Holidays

Looking for a dish that wows your guests without stressing you out? These Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect addition to your winter baking list.

The house smells like roasted nuts and sweet vanilla. It is the ultimate holiday feeling. You will love how simple these are to make for your family.

What Makes This Recipe Special

These cookies offer a perfect balance of textures. You get a crunchy hazelnut crust with a soft shortbread center. The creamy chocolate filling adds a touch of pure luxury.

They look like they came from a fancy bakery. However, they use basic pantry staples you likely have. They are ideal for holiday platters or cookie swaps with friends.

Simple Method

Making these is a fun, tactile process. You start with a simple buttery dough. Then, you roll, dip, and press with your thumb. Even if you are a beginner, you can do this with great success.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These treats rely on fresh seasonal nuts and quality chocolate spread for the best flavor.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg white, slightly beaten
• 1 cup roasted hazelnuts, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup chocolate-hazelnut spread

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream together the butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually stir in the flour and salt until a dough forms.
5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, approximately 24 total.
6. Dip each ball into the beaten egg white then roll in the chopped hazelnuts to coat.
7. Place balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Press a deep indentation into the center of each ball using your thumb or the back of a small spoon.
9. Bake for 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. If indentations have puffed up, gently press them down again while the cookies are still warm.
11. Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, fill each indentation with approximately 1 teaspoon of chocolate-hazelnut spread.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve these on a festive wooden board for your next party. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee. Or, enjoy them with a cold glass of milk. Set the table and share them with your favorite people.

Keep It Fresh

Store cookies in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for five days. You can also freeze the baked cookies easily. Simply thaw them before adding the fresh chocolate filling. This is a great make-ahead option for busy holiday weeks.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t skip roasting the hazelnuts for deeper flavor.
• Avoid making the balls too large so they bake evenly.
• Use a measuring spoon to make uniform indentations.
• Wait for cookies to cool before adding the chocolate spread.
• For the holidays, add a pinch of sea salt on top.
• Press the center again immediately after baking if they puff.
• Make the dough a day early to save time.

Ways to Switch It Up

• Swap hazelnuts for walnuts if you prefer a different crunch.
• Use almond extract for a cherry-like aroma.
• Try a dark chocolate ganache instead of hazelnut spread.
• Make them dairy-free by using a vegan butter substitute.

Common Questions

Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes, you can chill the dough overnight. Just let it soften slightly before rolling. This helps save time during busy holiday prep.

Why did my cookies crack?

The dough might be a little too dry. Try adding a teaspoon of milk. Also, press your thumb gently and slowly into the center.

I hope these cozy cookies bring a little magic to your winter evenings. Give them a try and let every bite warm you up. Happy baking!

— Clara