Imagine the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen, instantly lifting your spirits. That warm hug of nostalgia is what these Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies bring to every gathering and quiet evening alike. This festive recipe is more than just another cookie; it’s a delightful nod to the beloved flavors of Ferrero Rocher, wrapped up in a homemade treat. Picture chewy centers and crisp edges, each cookie enveloped in silky chocolate and topped with toasted hazelnuts that add a satisfying crunch.
These cookies are not only crowd-pleasers but also the perfect edible gift for the holidays. In just a short time, you’ll have a batch of scrumptious delights that everyone will be clamoring for. They’re ideal for holiday cookie exchanges, or simply to indulge your loved ones—because who wouldn’t appreciate a little extra love during the festive season?
Curious about how to whip these up and make your holiday celebrations even sweeter? Let’s dive into the recipe and bring some cheer to your kitchen!
Why Love Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies?
Irresistible Flavor: These cookies pack a punch with the richness of chocolate complemented by the nutty crunch of toasted hazelnuts.
Perfect for Gifting: Whether for holiday exchanges or personal treats, they make a thoughtful and indulgent edible gift.
Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can enjoy these cookies without any hassle in the kitchen!
Crowd Favorite: Friends and family will be raving about these unique cookies, making them a perfect addition to your dessert table.
Nostalgic Touch: Inspired by Ferrero Rocher, they capture that beloved flavor in every bite, bringing back fond memories of holiday treats.
Don't forget to check out my Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies for another delicious holiday treat!
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Ingredients
• Elevate your baking game with these delightful cookies!
For the Cookie Dough
- Hazelnuts – Provides a nutty flavor and texture; roast at 350°F for 10 minutes, then rub off most of the skins.
- All-purpose flour – Gives the cookies their structure and firmness.
- Cocoa powder – Contributes a rich chocolate flavor and helps in forming the dough.
- Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to create a light texture.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and tenderness to the cookies.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookie and aids in browning.
- Brown sugar – Adds depth of flavor, moisture, and sweetness.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor profile, making it even more inviting.
For the Chocolate Coating
- Semi-sweet or Dark Chocolate (60-70%) – Creates the glossy coating; choose high-quality chocolate for the best results.
- Coconut oil or Shortening (optional) – Adds shine and helps smooth the chocolate coating.
For the Topping
- Finely Chopped Roasted Hazelnuts – Adds a delightful crunch and intensifies the hazelnut flavor on top.
Get ready to bake your heart out with these Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies, and let the festive spirit fill your home!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies
Step 1
Start by roasting the hazelnuts to bring out their rich flavor. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the whole hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Once done, allow them to cool slightly before rubbing off most of the skins. Roughly chop half of the hazelnuts for the cookie dough and set the other half aside for topping.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps incorporate air into the butter, giving your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies a nice texture.
Step 3
After achieving a fluffy texture, add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat again until fully combined, ensuring these wet ingredients enhance the richness of your cookies. The mixture should be smooth and creamy, creating a wonderful base that complements the chocolate and hazelnuts.
Step 4
Next, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt directly into the wet ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold the dry ingredients into the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; you want the dough to remain tender and not tough.
Step 5
Now, it's time to fold in the roughly chopped roasted hazelnuts. This adds that signature nuttiness to your dough, preparing it for the oven. Gently stir until the hazelnuts are evenly distributed throughout the dough, ensuring that every bite of your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies has that delightful crunch.
Step 6
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls, then flatten each ball into a disc shape. Arrange these discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. This shaping helps ensure uniform cookies that bake evenly.
Step 7
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should be set while the centers remain soft when you remove them from the oven. This balance is key to achieving that delightful chewy texture in your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies.
Step 8
While the cookies cool completely on a wire rack, it's time to melt the chocolate. Chop your semi-sweet or dark chocolate and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted. If desired, stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil to enhance the shine and smoothness of the coating.
Step 9
Once your cookies are completely cool, dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate. Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing them on a sheet of parchment paper. Immediately sprinkle the finely chopped roasted hazelnuts on top of the chocolate-dipped area, adding that extra crunch to your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies.
Step 10
Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature for a while or speed up the process by chilling them in the fridge for about 10 minutes. When the chocolate has completely hardened, your festive Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies are ready to be enjoyed or gifted—bringing joy and deliciousness to your holiday season!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies are a fantastic choice for those who love to meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking, which helps save time on busy weeknights. Simply follow the first six steps to make your dough, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Keep in mind to form the cookies into discs before chilling, which makes it easy to bake them fresh when you're ready. When you're set to serve, just pop the prepped cookies in the oven as per the original instructions, and you'll enjoy freshly baked treats just as delicious as if they were made from scratch!
What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies?
Nothing pairs better with the joy of baking than complementary treats that elevate your holiday gatherings.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: The decadence of hot chocolate will enhance the chocolatey goodness, making each bite of cookie even more indulgent.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream is the perfect contrast to these crunchy cookies, creating a delightful texture combo with every spoonful.
- Fruit Platter: A colorful array of fresh berries and sliced fruits adds a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the cookies, brightening up your dessert spread.
- Coffee or Espresso: Pair these cookies with a cup of coffee or espresso for a gorgeous flavor pairing, perfect for those cozy winter nights.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Serve alongside classic chocolate chip cookies for a cookie platter that offers a delightful variety, inviting everyone to indulge.
- Milk: A classic childhood favorite, a tall glass of milk perfectly complements the rich flavors while softening the crunch of each delightful bite.
- Hazelnut Liqueur: Embrace the nutty notes with a splash of hazelnut liqueur, elevating your dessert experience and adding a touch of warmth.
- Christmas Spice Tea: The fragrant spices in a warm cup of Christmas tea provide an aromatic and comforting complement to the chocolate-hazelnut experience.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an additional layer of sweetness that will surely impress your guests.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies
Airtight Container: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dipped cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag and keep them for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy, simply remove from the freezer and let thaw at room temperature or in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer them warm, you can reheat frozen cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies
Roasting Hazelnuts: Always roast raw hazelnuts to unlock their rich flavor. Skipping this step will result in a less vibrant taste.
Quality Chocolate: Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate with 60-70% cacao to ensure a perfect balance of sweetness and depth.
Cool Before Dipping: Allow cookies to cool completely before dipping in chocolate to prevent the coating from slipping off.
Chill for Shine: If desired, add a teaspoon of coconut oil to your melted chocolate for a smoother, shinier finish.
Don’t Overmix Dough: Be gentle when folding dry ingredients into the wet mixture; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
These tips will ensure your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies turn out perfectly every time, delighting your family and friends!
Chocolate Hazelnut Variations
Feel inspired to put your unique twist on these delightful treats!
- Nut-Free: Substitute hazelnuts with sunflower seeds for an allergy-friendly option, maintaining that lovely crunch.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep the texture intact, making these cookies safe for everyone.
- Chilli Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the melted chocolate for a warm, subtle heat that complements the sweetness.
- Coconut Crunch: Mix shredded coconut into the cookie dough for a tropical twist, enhancing the texture beautifully.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: Swap out dark chocolate for white chocolate or drizzle over the tops for a sweeter finish and pretty presentation.
- Dried Fruit Flare: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries into the dough for fruity bursts that add both flavor and color.
- Espresso Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients to deepen the chocolate flavor with a coffee essence.
- Orange Zest: For a refreshing citrus note, add a tablespoon of orange zest to the cookie dough, brightening each bite with a hint of nostalgia.
Each variation allows you to create a new favorite while keeping the essence of the beloved Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies intact. Enjoy experimenting!
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the secret to a crunchy cookie?
The secret to achieving a crunchy cookie lies in the fat used and the baking method. Using shortening instead of butter can enhance the crispiness due to its higher melting point. Also, baking for an extra minute or two allows more moisture to evaporate, resulting in a crunchier texture.
Do hazelnut and chocolate go together?
Absolutely! Hazelnuts and chocolate are a classic combination, reminiscent of the beloved Ferrero Rocher. The nutty flavor of toasted hazelnuts enhances the rich, creamy chocolate, creating a delightful and harmonious taste that is simply irresistible.
How to store Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Be sure to place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. For longer preservation, freeze the dipped cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can last up to 3 months.
What does cream of tartar do in cookies?
While this recipe doesn’t call for cream of tartar, it's often used as a leavening agent in cookie recipes. It stabilizes egg whites and adds acidity, which helps cookies maintain a light and fluffy texture. Moreover, it can prevent sugar crystals from forming, resulting in a smoother dough.
What are common troubleshooting tips for cookies?
If your cookies are spreading too much during baking, try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before shaping. This helps the fat firm up, preventing excessive spread. Also, ensure your oven is properly calibrated; overbaking can lead to dry cookies rather than chewy centers. If they’re too tough, mix the dough just until combined—overmixing can lead to density.
Can pets safely eat chocolate hazelnut cookies?
No, it’s crucial to keep these cookies away from pets, especially dogs. Chocolate is toxic to many pets, including canines, as it contains theobromine, which can cause serious health issues. Always store baked goods safely out of reach to ensure your furry friends stay safe.
Indulgent Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies for Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Method
- Start by roasting the hazelnuts to bring out their rich flavor. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the whole hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Once done, allow them to cool slightly before rubbing off most of the skins. Roughly chop half of the hazelnuts for the cookie dough and set the other half aside for topping.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat again until fully combined, ensuring these wet ingredients enhance the richness of your cookies.
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt directly into the wet ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold the dry ingredients into the mixture until just combined.
- Now, fold in the roughly chopped roasted hazelnuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls, then flatten each ball into a disc shape. Arrange these discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Bake your cookies in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should be set while the centers remain soft when you remove them from the oven.
- While the cookies cool completely on a wire rack, melt the chocolate. Chop your semi-sweet or dark chocolate and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts until smooth and fully melted.
- Once your cookies are cool, dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate. Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing them on parchment paper. Immediately sprinkle the finely chopped roasted hazelnuts on top of the chocolate-dipped area.
- Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes until hardened.
Nutrition
Notes
- Always roast raw hazelnuts to unlock their rich flavor.
- Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate with 60-70% cacao for a perfect balance.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before dipping in chocolate.
- Add a teaspoon of coconut oil for a smoother finish.
- Be gentle when folding dry ingredients to avoid tough cookies.
