These Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Thumbprints are the perfect treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Combining the rich flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts with a smooth, creamy filling, they are ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a special celebration. These bite-sized cookies are a delightful combination of textures, with a soft and chewy base, a crisp hazelnut coating, and a creamy chocolate hazelnut center that will melt in your mouth. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Perfectly sweet and nutty, these cookies can easily be customized for different flavor profiles, and their simple, elegant appearance makes them great for gifting. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just because, these Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Thumbprints are sure to impress. The best part? They’re easy to make, so even beginners can enjoy the satisfaction of homemade cookies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Decadent Flavors

The combination of rich chocolate, toasted hazelnuts, and creamy chocolate hazelnut spread delivers a flavor explosion that will satisfy your sweet cravings.

2. Perfect Texture

With a chewy, soft base, crunchy hazelnut coating, and a smooth, velvety filling, these thumbprints are the perfect balance of textures in every bite.

3. Easy to Make

Despite their gourmet taste, these cookies come together quickly with easy-to-follow steps, making them perfect for beginner bakers.

4. Great for Gifting

These cookies look impressive, making them an excellent choice for holiday gifts, birthday treats, or party favors.

5. Customizable

The recipe allows room for variations, so you can adapt it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs, from using different nuts to swapping out the chocolate hazelnut spread for other fillings.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Salt
Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Large egg
Milk
Vanilla extract
Hazelnuts, finely chopped
Chocolate hazelnut spread

Variations

Nut Substitutes: If you prefer other nuts, you can substitute hazelnuts with almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
Dairy-Free Version: Swap the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free chocolate hazelnut spread to make the cookies dairy-free.
Different Fillings: For a twist, you can use peanut butter, caramel, or fruit preserves in the thumbprint centers.
Gluten-Free Version: You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring you check that your chocolate hazelnut spread is also gluten-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg yolk, milk, and vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together and is fully incorporated.

Step 5: Prepare Egg White and Hazelnuts

In a small bowl, whisk the egg white until frothy. Place the finely chopped hazelnuts in another shallow dish.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, dip each ball into the egg white, and then roll in the chopped hazelnuts to coat them.

Step 7: Bake

Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb (or a spoon) to create an indentation in the center of each cookie.

Step 8: Bake and Re-indent

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they are set. Remove them from the oven and immediately press the centers again to deepen the indentation.

Step 9: Fill with Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

Allow the cookies to cool completely before filling the center of each cookie with chocolate hazelnut spread.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft or sticky to roll, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before shaping the cookies.
Even Coating: Ensure the hazelnuts are finely chopped for an even coating around the cookie dough.
Re-indent Carefully: Re-indenting the cookies as soon as they come out of the oven helps create a better space for the filling.

How to Serve

These Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Thumbprints are best enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee or tea. They make a delightful addition to any dessert table, holiday spread, or simply as an afternoon snack. You can also pair them with a glass of milk or hot chocolate for an indulgent treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you have many leftovers, consider separating layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cookies on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for about 1 hour. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, allow the cookies to thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. Avoid reheating them in the oven, as the hazelnut spread may become too runny.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of spread in the center?

Yes, you can use peanut butter, fruit preserves, or any nut butter of your choice instead of chocolate hazelnut spread.

2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

3. How can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free butter substitute and ensure the chocolate hazelnut spread is dairy-free.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.

5. Can I use roasted hazelnuts instead of raw?

Yes, roasted hazelnuts work fine, but they may have a slightly different texture when used as a coating.

6. How do I make sure the cookies don’t spread too much while baking?

Ensure your dough is firm and not overly soft. If needed, chill the dough before baking to maintain shape.

7. Can I use egg substitute for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a flax egg or another egg replacer for a vegan version.

8. Can I add more flavor to the dough?

You can add a pinch of cinnamon, espresso powder, or a splash of almond extract for added flavor.

9. How can I prevent the hazelnuts from falling off during baking?

Make sure the egg white coating is frothy, and press the hazelnuts into the dough gently to ensure they stick well.

10. Can I decorate these cookies with additional chocolate?

Yes, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the top for extra flair and flavor.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Thumbprints are a perfect combination of rich, indulgent flavors and irresistible textures. Whether you’re looking for a new cookie recipe for the holidays or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe will not disappoint. Easy to make, customizable, and delicious, these cookies are sure to become a go-to favorite. So go ahead and try them—your taste buds will thank you!