Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies: The Ultimate Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that combines rich chocolatey goodness with a delightful crunch, then you’re in for a treat! These Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies: The Ultimate Recipe are not just any cookies; they are a celebration of flavors and textures. With each bite, you get the creamy swirl of hazelnut spread and the satisfying crunch from toasted hazelnuts. They are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a sweet pick-me-up or for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy them together.

What makes these cookies extra special is how easy they are to make! You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip up a batch that will impress your friends and family. Whether it’s an afternoon snack or a late-night dessert, these cookies fit every occasion beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll be baking like a pro in no time!
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the delicious chocolate-hazelnut flavor combination.
• Perfect for sharing: Bake a batch to share at gatherings, potlucks, or just because!
• Make-ahead option: The dough can be chilled for later use, making it convenient for busy days.
• Decadent flavor: The unique combination of chocolate and hazelnuts is simply irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Gather them up for an amazing cookie experience!

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped hazelnuts, toasted
• ⅓ cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
• ⅓ cup crushed chocolate-covered wafer cookies (like Kit Kats or similar), for topping (optional)
• Sea salt flakes, for sprinkling (optional)

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add some spice: Toss in a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Nut-free option: Replace hazelnuts with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely if allergies are a concern.
• Go fruity: Add dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a refreshing twist.
• Chocolate overload: Use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for an even sweeter treat.

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies: The Ultimate Recipe

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Scraping down the sides of the bowl ensures everything gets mixed evenly. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, which helps create light and tender cookies.

Step 2: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract next. This not only adds sweetness but also enhances all those lovely flavors we’re creating!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour before it meets the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients to Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here; we want tender cookies!

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Hazelnuts

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and toasted chopped hazelnuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds both texture and bursts of flavor into each cookie.

Step 6: Swirl in Hazelnut Spread

Drop spoonfuls of hazelnut spread onto the dough. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl it into the mixture without fully blending it in. This creates beautiful swirls that will be visible once baked!

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to two hours. Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking so that your cookies stay thick and chewy.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats—this makes cleanup easier!

Step 9: Scoop the Dough

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Leave about two inches between each cookie; they will spread as they bake!

Step 10: Add Toppings (Optional)

If desired, sprinkle crushed chocolate-covered wafer cookies on top of each cookie along with some sea salt flakes for an extra touch of sweetness and crunch.

Step 11: Bake

Bake your cookies for about 9-11 minutes or until the edges are golden brown while still soft in the center. Keep an eye on them; ovens can vary!

Step 12: Cool

Remove your baking sheets from the oven and let them cool for just a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these warm delights with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies: The Ultimate Recipe

Baking these cookies is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your butter and eggs to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures better incorporation of ingredients.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy delights.

• Chill the Dough: Giving the dough time to chill not only enhances the flavors but also helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thick, chewy cookies.

• Experiment with Hazelnut Spread: Feel free to adjust the amount of hazelnut spread you swirl into the dough. More spread means richer flavor; less will keep it lighter.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; every oven is different. Pull them out when the edges are golden brown but the centers look slightly underbaked for that perfect soft texture.

How to Serve Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies: The Ultimate Recipe

These decadent cookies not only taste amazing but also make a beautiful presentation. Here are some ideas on how to serve them up!

Garnishes

• Chopped Toasted Hazelnuts: A sprinkle of extra chopped toasted hazelnuts adds visual appeal and enhances the nutty flavor.
• Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce: A light drizzle of melted chocolate sauce over the cooled cookies creates an elegant touch that’s sure to impress.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Almond Milk: This creamy drink complements the rich chocolate flavor of the cookies while offering a refreshing contrast.
• Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee or espresso pairs beautifully with chocolate, enhancing both flavors and making for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Fresh Berries: Serve a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and a tart contrast that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or hazelnut ice cream alongside these warm cookies creates a decadent dessert experience that’s hard to resist!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create an unforgettable cookie experience that your friends and family will love! Enjoy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week or save some for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, place a slice of bread in the container to keep them soft.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the baked cookies cool completely.
• Layer cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you’re craving a warm cookie quickly!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delightful cookies.

Can I use any type of chocolate chips for the Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies: The Ultimate Recipe?

Yes! While semi-sweet chocolate chips are recommended, you can use dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

How do I achieve the perfect crunch in my Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies: The Ultimate Recipe?

To ensure the crunchiness, make sure to toast your hazelnuts until golden before adding them to the dough. Also, don’t skip the optional crushed wafer cookie topping!

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) instead of regular eggs.

What can I substitute for hazelnut spread if I can’t find it?

You can use almond butter or sunflower seed spread as an alternative if hazelnut spread is not available.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up a batch of these Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies! They’re not just treats; they’re moments of joy wrapped in chocolatey goodness. Enjoy sharing them with loved ones or indulging in one (or two!) on your own. Happy baking!