These Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor and the delightful crunch of hazelnuts. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as an afternoon snack, they deliver the kind of comforting, familiar taste we all crave.
The combination of semisweet chocolate chips and roasted hazelnuts creates a decadent treat that’s not overly sweet but deeply satisfying. The cookies are crispy on the edges, with a soft, chewy center that holds the perfect balance between texture and flavor. Ideal for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations, these cookies will surely impress.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
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1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
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1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
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In a large bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
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Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until smooth.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
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Stir in the chopped hazelnuts and chocolate chips.
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Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown and the centers are set.
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Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 2-3 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal per cookie | Servings: 24 cookies
Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Perfect Blend of Nutty and Sweet
When it comes to baking, some recipes have the magical ability to elevate a simple treat into something extraordinary. Hazelnut chocolate chip cookies are one such recipe that combines the beloved flavors of rich chocolate with the crunch and warmth of toasted hazelnuts. The result is a cookie that’s both indulgent and comforting, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.
The Perfect Combination of Chocolate and Hazelnuts
What makes hazelnut chocolate chip cookies stand out from your typical chocolate chip cookie? The addition of hazelnuts adds a layer of depth and complexity to the traditional cookie flavor. Hazelnuts are known for their sweet, buttery flavor and slightly earthy taste, which complements the smooth, sweet richness of the chocolate chips. The combination of these two ingredients results in a cookie that’s both crunchy and chewy, with every bite offering a satisfying balance of textures and flavors.
Hazelnuts, also known as filberts, have been a beloved nut for centuries, especially in Europe. Their slightly sweet, slightly smoky flavor pairs beautifully with chocolate, which is why they’re often used in gourmet desserts and confections. In fact, the famous combination of hazelnuts and chocolate is often seen in popular spreads like Nutella, further proving how well these two ingredients complement each other.
Why Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookies Are Special
There are many reasons why these cookies are a standout choice for baking enthusiasts and dessert lovers. First and foremost, the flavor combination is something truly special. While chocolate chip cookies are a classic, adding hazelnuts takes them to a whole new level. It introduces a depth of flavor and texture that most cookies lack, making these hazelnut chocolate chip cookies a real treat.
Another great thing about this recipe is how versatile it is. The dough can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, so if you’re short on time, you can bake them when the craving strikes. This recipe is also customizable if you’re not a fan of hazelnuts, you can easily swap them out for another type of nut, like walnuts or pecans. You could even add a swirl of caramel or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra flair. The possibilities are endless!
The Joy of Baking at Home
One of the best things about making cookies at home is the incredible aroma that fills the kitchen. There’s something magical about baking cookies from scratch especially when they’re hazelnut chocolate chip cookies. The butter and sugar meld together to create a rich base, while the chocolate chips melt into gooey pockets of goodness. The smell of cookies baking in the oven is enough to make anyone’s mouth water and brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth that’s hard to beat.
Baking cookies is a simple pleasure, but it’s also a great way to bond with friends and family. Whether you’re baking with your kids or preparing a batch to share with loved ones, cookies have a way of bringing people together. The act of measuring out the ingredients, mixing the dough, and baking the cookies can create lasting memories, especially when shared over a cup of milk or tea. Plus, there’s no better way to show someone you care than with a batch of homemade cookies!
Tips for Perfect Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookies
To ensure your hazelnut chocolate chip cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
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Use High-Quality Chocolate: The chocolate chips are one of the main flavor components in these cookies, so it’s worth investing in good-quality chocolate. Look for semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips, which will provide a nice balance of sweetness and richness. If you want to elevate the cookies even further, consider using a mix of chocolate chips, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and white chocolate.
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Toast the Hazelnuts: While this step is optional, toasting the hazelnuts brings out their natural oils and intensifies their flavor. Simply place them on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until they’re fragrant and golden brown. Once they’ve cooled, you can chop them to the desired size.
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Chill the Dough: For the best results, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld together and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. It also results in thicker, chewier cookies with the perfect texture.
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Don’t Overbake: The key to chewy cookies is to avoid overbaking them. Hazelnut chocolate chip cookies should be golden brown on the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool, so it’s important to take them out just before they reach your desired level of doneness.
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Store Properly: These cookies stay fresh for several days if stored correctly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the dough or baked cookies. Just be sure to let them cool completely before freezing, and store them in a zip-top bag or airtight container.
Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookies for Every Occasion
These cookies are ideal for any time you need a sweet treat whether it’s for a family gathering, a birthday party, a holiday celebration, or simply as an afternoon pick-me-up. They also make fantastic gifts. Pack them in a decorative tin or box and give them to friends or loved ones as a thoughtful homemade gift. Everyone will appreciate the effort you put into making such a delicious and memorable treat.
If you’re hosting a gathering or party, hazelnut chocolate chip cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve them alongside a hot drink like coffee or hot chocolate, and you’ll have a delightful dessert spread that everyone will love. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, family, or colleagues, these cookies will add a touch of sweetness and warmth to any event.
Conclusion:
Hazelnut chocolate chip cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. They combine the richness of chocolate with the earthy, nutty flavor of hazelnuts, creating a cookie that’s truly special. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite. The balance of textures from the crunchy edges to the chewy center along with the satisfying flavor of the toasted hazelnuts and chocolate, makes them a must-try recipe. So, next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, reach for this recipe, and enjoy a batch of these irresistible cookies. Happy baking!