There’s nothing quite like the moment your oven fills with the heavenly aroma of freshly baked cookies, and these Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies are no exception. Picture sinking your teeth into a warm cookie that boasts a crisp exterior and a delightfully chewy center, brimming with rich chocolate and nutty crunch. I stumbled upon this recipe during a weekend baking spree, and it quickly became a go-to for satisfying that mid-week chocolate craving or impressing friends during the holidays.
Crafted for small households, this indulgent cookie recipe ensures you can still enjoy bakery-quality treats without the fuss of making a dozen. With every bite, you’ll revel in the perfect marriage of flavors and textures, making it a true crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up. So, whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or simply want to elevate your dessert game, these cookies promise a moment of pure bliss. Let’s get baking!
Why are Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies irresistible?
Decadent, these cookies deliver an explosion of chocolatey goodness with every bite, perfectly complemented by nutty hazelnuts. Small-batch friendly, you can whip up a fresh batch without overwhelming your kitchen. Texture heaven, enjoy a delightful crisp exterior that gives way to a chewy center filled with gooey chocolate chunks. Versatile, customize them with different nuts or chocolate for a unique twist. Quick to make, satisfying your cravings has never been easier! Prep these cookies for any occasion, and watch your friends and family fall in love!
Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies Ingredients
• For the Cookie Base
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; feel free to use salted butter and reduce added salt slightly.
- Light Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and a chewy texture; dark brown sugar gives a deeper flavor if you’d like to swap.
- Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness; coconut sugar is a great alternative for a unique taste.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; for an egg-free cookie, substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; almond extract can offer a delightful different note.
- Plain Flour (All-purpose) – Provides structure to the cookies; try using gluten-free flour with a binding agent for a gluten-free option.
- Cocoa Powder – Infuses rich chocolate flavor; use carob powder as a caffeine-free alternative.
- Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise; you can switch to baking powder but at a different ratio.
- Baking Powder – Works with baking soda for proper leavening; omit if only using baking soda by doubling the amount.
- Fine Salt – Balances flavors and enhances sweetness; sea salt or Himalayan salt are excellent substitutes.
• For the Chocolatey Goodness
- Milk Chocolate Chunks – Create those gooey chocolate pockets; dark chocolate or semi-sweet options can change the flavor profile beautifully.
• For the Nutty Crunch
- Blanched Hazelnuts – Add delightful crunch and nuttiness; substituting with pecans or almonds gives a fun variation.
- Flaked Sea Salt – Optional for a sprinkle of finish; kosher salt works as a good alternative.
With these ingredients, you’ll capture the essence of Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies, inviting your loved ones to indulge in each luscious bite. Happy baking!
How to Make Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies
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Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat room temperature butter with light brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Next, incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the bowl, mixing until everything is nicely combined and smooth.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: Then, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into your wet mixture on low speed until just blended.
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Mix Flavorings: Fold in 3/4 of the chocolate chunks and hazelnuts, making sure they’re evenly distributed while reserving the remaining bits for topping.
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Shape and Chill: Scoop the dough into 2 cm balls and place them on a tray. Press the reserved nuts and chocolate into the tops of each ball, cover the tray, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to enhance flavor and texture.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cookies on lined trays for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft and slightly gooey.
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Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and gently shape them if they’re uneven. Sprinkle with flaked sea salt and allow them to cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Optional: Pair them warm with a glass of milk for a delightful treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature to achieve a light, fluffy texture. Cold butter can lead to dense cookies, so give it time to warm up.
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Chill the Dough: For the best texture and flavor, chill the dough before baking. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances taste.
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Accurate Measurements: Use a kitchen scale for precise ingredient measurements, especially flour. This can help avoid dry or overly wet dough, ensuring your Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies turn out perfectly.
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Twirl for Roundness: If you want that bakery-style round shape, gently twirl a cookie cutter around the warm cookies right after they come out of the oven.
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Watch Baking Time: Keep a close eye on baking time. Remove the cookies when the edges are set but the centers are still soft for that ideal chewy texture.
What to Serve with Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies?
These cookies are perfect for customizing your sweet moments, creating a delightful experience that warms the heart.
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A Glass of Cold Milk: The classic pairing that balances richness with creaminess; it beautifully enhances the chocolatey goodness of the cookies.
Imagine biting into a warm cookie and sipping creamy milk—it’s a comforting combination! -
Vanilla Ice Cream: Top your cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The cool creaminess contrasts wonderfully with the warm cookie.
This duo creates a heavenly experience that’s perfect for warm evenings or celebrations. -
Fresh Berries: Fresh raspberries or strawberries add a pop of tartness, cutting through the sweetness and making your dessert feel light and refreshing.
Their vibrant flavors add an unexpected twist, elevating your cookie experience. -
Espresso or Coffee: Serve these cookies with a rich cup of espresso or coffee to enhance the chocolate flavors. The bitter notes from the coffee complement the sweetness perfectly.
It’s a delightful way to elevate your afternoon break! -
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For the ultimate indulgence, drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the top of the cookies. It adds an extra layer of decadence, perfect for special occasions.
Your guests will be in dessert heaven with this sweet addition! -
Nutty Ice Cream: Choose a hazelnut or chocolate-flavored ice cream to tie in the cookie’s flavors. The creamy texture and crunch will mimic the nutty brilliance of the cookies themselves.
A delightful treat that marries the flavors beautifully!
How to Store and Freeze Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies
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Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will help maintain their chewy texture while keeping them fresh and delicious.
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Fridge: If you prefer your cookies chilled or want to keep them longer, store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before enjoying.
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Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. For best results, stack with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking.
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Cookie Dough: Freeze cookie dough balls individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a bag. You can bake straight from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!
Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies Variations
Customize your baking adventure with these delightful twists on the classic recipe! Each alternative offers a unique spin, allowing you to explore various flavors and textures.
- Nut-Free: Replace hazelnuts with sunflower seeds for a crunchy, nut-free option that’s still delightful.
- White Chocolate: Swap half of the milk chocolate chunks for white chocolate for a creamy sweetness that balances the richness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising, spicy flavor alongside the chocolate.
- Coffee Infusion: Mix in 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules to deepen the chocolate flavor for coffee lovers.
- Cinnamon Twist: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Dried Fruit: Stir in a handful of dried cherries or cranberries for a sweet-tart contrast, creating a delightful taste experience.
- Caramel Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted caramel on top for an indulgent touch that adds richness to each bite.
- Vegan: Use coconut oil and a flax egg instead of butter and a large egg for a vegan-friendly version that still tastes heavenly.
Feel empowered to mix and match these variations to create your perfect Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop the dough into 2 cm balls, place them on a tray, press in the reserved chocolate chunks and hazelnuts, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. If you need to prep even earlier, freeze the shaped dough balls for up to 3 months—bake them directly from frozen, simply adding a minute or two to the baking time. To maintain quality, ensure they are stored in an airtight container once baked, keeping them fresh and delicious for up to 5 days at room temperature. These make-ahead options mean you can enjoy warm, gooey cookies with minimal effort at any time!
Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my hazelnuts are fresh enough to use?
Absolutely! Fresh hazelnuts should feel firm and have a pleasant nutty aroma. If they appear soft or have a bitter smell, they may be stale. Check for dark spots or mold, which are signs to toss them out. If in doubt, taste one to see if the flavor is strong!
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Very! Keep your Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying to fully appreciate their chewy goodness.
Can I freeze Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies?
Yes! To freeze baked cookies, place them in a single layer in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. For best results, layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you’re freezing dough, scoop out balls, freeze them individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra couple of minutes to the baking time.
What if my cookie dough is too soft to handle?
I recommend chilling the dough! If it’s too soft, wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This will firm up the dough, making it much easier to scoop and shape cookies, and it’ll help maintain their texture during baking.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Absolutely! For those with nut allergies, you can substitute hazelnuts with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. If you’re making these cookies egg-free, use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly, as the texture may vary.
Can I use different types of flour for my cookies?
Absolutely, you can! If you are looking for a gluten-free option, a good gluten-free flour blend works nicely, especially if you add a binding agent like xanthan gum or ground flax seeds. Just remember that different flours may absorb moisture differently, so you might have to adjust the liquid ingredients a bit.
Decadent Double Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, beat room temperature butter with light brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Next, incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the bowl, mixing until everything is nicely combined and smooth.
- Then, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into your wet mixture on low speed until just blended.
- Fold in 3/4 of the chocolate chunks and hazelnuts, making sure they're evenly distributed while reserving the remaining bits for topping.
- Scoop the dough into 2 cm balls and place them on a tray. Press the reserved nuts and chocolate into the tops of each ball, cover the tray, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to enhance flavor and texture.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cookies on lined trays for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft and slightly gooey.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and gently shape them if they’re uneven. Sprinkle with flaked sea salt and allow them to cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.