As the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but think of holiday gatherings filled with laughter and joy. These Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies are my go-to for capturing that festive spirit. With their chewy centers, crisp edges, and a rich chocolate coating sprinkled with toasted hazelnuts, each bite feels like a special occasion. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, but they also make for perfect edible gifts and delightful treats for cookie exchanges. Whether you’re baking to impress friends or simply treating yourself, brace for the rave reviews. Are you ready to dive into a world of holiday indulgence?
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?
Irresistible Flavor: The rich combination of chocolate and hazelnuts sings in every bite, making these cookies a true holiday delight.
Perfect Gift Idea: Wrapped in festive packaging, they become the ideal edible gifts that family and friends will adore.
Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can impress with these delectable treats.
Customizable: Feel free to swap hazelnuts for almonds or pecans if you’re looking for a twist.
Celebrate Tradition: These cookies are not just tasty; they embody the holiday spirit in every crumb, perfect for cookie exchanges or festive gatherings.
Enjoy them with a cup of coffee, or pair with other festive cookies like Chocolate Chip Cookies for a delightful selection!
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• Butter – Adds richness and moisture to the cookie dough; use unsalted for better control of salt content.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps achieve a delightful texture.
• Brown Sugar – Adds depth and enhances the nutty flavor; can substitute with more granulated sugar if needed.
• Egg – Binds all ingredients together and contributes moisture for a chewy cookie.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile; consider using pure vanilla for the best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – Ensures structure in the cookies; can be swapped with a gluten-free blend if preferred.
• Cocoa Powder – Infuses chocolate flavor; avoid Dutch-processed cocoa to maintain the right acid balance.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to give the cookies a nice rise.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
For the Coating
• Dark Chocolate (60-70% cocoa) – Used for dipping, providing a rich flavor and glossy finish; avoid overly sweet or bitter chocolate.
• Coconut Oil – Optional, but when added to melted chocolate, it helps achieve a smooth coating for your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies.
For the Crunch
• Hazelnuts – Adds that perfect crunch and nutty flavor; be sure to roast them for optimal taste—raw hazelnuts won’t give the right result.
Get ready to create these delightful holiday cookies that will be the star of every gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies
Step 1: Roast Hazelnuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and roast them for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through until they’re aromatic and slightly golden. Once done, let them cool for a few minutes before chopping them unevenly. This roasting step will enhance the flavor of your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies.
Step 2: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, and mix well. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding consistently until just combined, then gently fold in the chopped hazelnuts.
Step 3: Shape Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop out the dough and roll it into balls using your hands. Flatten each ball slightly to form discs, ensuring they are uniform in size for even baking. Place these cookie discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them as they will spread while baking.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer your cookie sheet to the preheated oven and bake the Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies—once the edges appear set and the center looks slightly soft, they’re ready. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before proceeding to the chocolate coating.
Step 5: Coat in Chocolate
While the cookies are cooling, melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in bursts of 20 seconds, stirring each time until smooth. If you desire a glossy finish, stir in a tablespoon of coconut oil after the chocolate is melted. Dip each cooled cookie halfway into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off, then sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts on top before the chocolate firms up.
Step 6: Set Cookies
Once coated, place the cookies back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to set at room temperature until the chocolate is firm, which may take about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can refrigerate them for about 10 minutes to speed up the setting process. Enjoy your festive Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies once they’re ready!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time during the holiday hustle! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. If you prefer, the shaped cookie discs can be frozen for up to 3 months—just place them on a baking sheet to flash freeze before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw the frozen cookies; simply add a couple of extra minutes to your baking time. Remember to store baked cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers, keeping them fresh for up to 5 days. This way, your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies will be just as delicious and ready for gifting or festive celebrations!
What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies
Indulging in the rich flavors of these cookies creates a magical holiday experience, inviting delightful pairings to enhance your festive feasting.
- Hot Cocoa: The warmth of rich, creamy hot cocoa balances the cookies’ crunchy texture, making for a cozy treat on a chilly night.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast, enhancing the chocolate and hazelnut flavors wonderfully.
- Coffee: A rich cup of freshly brewed coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a comforting afternoon snack.
- Christmas Fruitcake: The moist richness of fruitcake introduces a fruity sweetness that plays off the chocolate and adds a festive flair.
For an unexpected twist, serve with a side of fresh berries. Their tartness contrasts beautifully, brightening up the decadent flavors of the Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Including nutty cheeses like Gouda can heighten the experience with an earthy, creamy note that pairs nicely with the cookies.
- Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced wine will elevate your gatherings, offering a fragrant, cozy companion to your delightful cookie selection.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies
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Roast Hazelnuts Right: Always roast your hazelnuts to enhance their flavor. Skipping this step can lead to bland cookies that lack the delightful crunch.
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Chocolate Melting Mastery: Melt chocolate in short bursts to prevent burning. A smooth consistency is key for an appealing chocolate coating on your cookies.
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Gentle Dough Handling: When folding in the hazelnuts, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so aim for a light touch to preserve texture.
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Storage Essentials: Store your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature.
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Chill for Perfect Coating: Consider refrigerating your cookies after dipping to help the chocolate set more quickly, ensuring a clean, professional finish.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies
Airtight Container: Store your freshly baked Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies after coating. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment, and they’ll last up to 2 months.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take out the desired amount of cookies and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Reheating: If you prefer them warm, reheat the thawed cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will refresh their delightful taste and texture!
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your baking experience with these delightful variations!
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Nut-Free: Simply omit hazelnuts and add extra chocolate chips for a nutless version.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to keep everyone happy at the holiday table.
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Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients for an extra depth of flavor that will enhance the chocolate.
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Different Chocolates: Swap out dark chocolate for white or milk chocolate for a sweeter twist, adjusting the sugar to taste.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of cayenne or chili powder for a surprising hint of heat, creating a unique flavor profile.
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Dip Variations: Try drizzling caramel or melted white chocolate on top of the dark chocolate coating for extra indulgence; it beautifully complements the nutty flavor.
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Crunchy Texture: Replace some of the flour with crushed unflavored rice cereal for added crunch.
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Festive Decorations: Top with colored sprinkles or edible glitter while the chocolate is still wet for a cheerful holiday look.
Elevate your cookie game and impress friends and family with these adaptations! If you’re in the mood for more chocolate goodness, check out our Dark Chocolate Raspberry or our easy-to-make Cinnamon Roll Cookies for delightful variations that all dessert lovers will enjoy!
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of hazelnuts should I use?
Absolutely! For optimal flavor, always use roasted hazelnuts in your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies. Roasting enhances their nutty profile and texture, leading to a much more flavorful cookie. If you only have raw hazelnuts on hand, simply spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 350°F for about 10 minutes until they’re aromatic and slightly golden.
How should I store my cookies?
To keep your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Make sure to layer parchment paper between the cookies to prevent them from sticking together. If you want to enjoy them later, they can be frozen for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
Can I freeze the cookies after coating?
Absolutely! You can freeze your cookies after dipping them in chocolate. Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can safely be frozen for up to 2 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying!
What’s the best way to melt chocolate for coating?
Very good question! To melt chocolate perfectly for coating your cookies, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat the chocolate in 20-second bursts, stirring in between to maintain an even consistency. This prevents the chocolate from burning. If you want a glossy finish, mix in a tablespoon of coconut oil after the chocolate is melted for a smooth coating.
Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can easily customize your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies based on dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Additionally, if you have nut allergies, you might consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of hazelnuts. Always check all ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary requirements!
Irresistible Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies for the Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roast hazelnuts on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes. Cool and chop.
- In a mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; mix well.
- Sift flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture.
- Scoop and roll dough into balls; flatten slightly. Place on a lined baking sheet with space in between.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are set and center is soft. Cool on a wire rack.
- Melt dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Dip cooled cookies, sprinkle hazelnuts on top, and let set.
- Allow cookies to set until chocolate is firm; refrigerate for faster setting if desired.
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