These Ultimate Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies combine the rich, nutty flavor of toasted hazelnuts with decadent chocolate in every bite. Each cookie delivers an irresistible crunch from the chopped hazelnuts, while the chocolate coating adds an extra layer of indulgence that makes these treats absolutely unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Ultimate Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies are the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The buttery, tender cookie base is packed with toasted hazelnuts that provide a satisfying crunch, while the cocoa powder adds depth and richness. The chocolate coating transforms these already delicious cookies into bakery-quality treats that look as stunning as they taste. Whether you’re baking for special occasions or treating yourself to something extraordinary, these cookies deliver restaurant-quality results every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookies:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) hazelnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons (15g) cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 8 oz (225g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother coating)
- ½ cup (60g) roasted hazelnuts, finely chopped (for topping)
How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Hazelnuts (10 minutes) Start by toasting your hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely, then roughly chop 1 ½ cups for the cookie dough and finely chop ½ cup for the chocolate coating topping.
Make the Cookie Dough (15 minutes) In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, then fold in the chopped hazelnuts.
Shape and Bake (12-15 minutes) Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop the dough into 2-tablespoon portions and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but centers are still slightly soft. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Chocolate Coating (10 minutes) Melt the chopped chocolate with coconut oil (if using) in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to prevent burning.
Coat and Finish (15 minutes) Dip each cooled cookie halfway into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place on a parchment-lined tray and immediately sprinkle with the finely chopped hazelnuts. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until the chocolate sets completely.
Helpful Tips
Toast hazelnuts properly by watching them carefully in the pan and stirring frequently to prevent burning. The skins may loosen during toasting, which you can remove by rubbing the warm nuts in a clean kitchen towel.
Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour mixture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to ensure tender cookies rather than tough ones.
Use room temperature ingredients for the best texture. Cold butter won’t cream properly, and cold eggs can cause the mixture to curdle.
Temper your chocolate for the smoothest coating by ensuring it doesn’t get too hot. If the chocolate becomes too thick while dipping, reheat gently for a few seconds.
Details
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Cooling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Difficulty: Intermediate
Notes
The Ultimate Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies can be made without the chocolate coating for a simpler version that’s still absolutely delicious. If hazelnuts are unavailable, you can substitute with toasted almonds or walnuts, though the flavor profile will change slightly. For an extra indulgent touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate coating once it has set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cookies up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. Add the chocolate coating on the day you plan to serve them for the best appearance and texture.
What if I don’t have hazelnuts? While hazelnuts are essential for the authentic flavor of these Ultimate Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies, you can substitute with toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Toast them the same way for the best flavor.
Can I freeze the cookie dough? Absolutely! Shape the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.
Why is my chocolate coating not smooth? This usually happens when the chocolate gets too hot or comes into contact with water. Make sure your bowl and utensils are completely dry, and melt the chocolate gently.
Storage Instructions
Store your Ultimate Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Layer them between parchment paper to prevent the chocolate coating from sticking. For longer storage, freeze the cookies (without chocolate coating) for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before adding the chocolate coating.
If you live in a warm climate, store the finished cookies in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from melting. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
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Conclusion
These Ultimate Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies represent the perfect marriage of textures and flavors that will elevate any occasion. The combination of buttery cookie base, crunchy toasted hazelnuts, and rich chocolate coating creates a truly memorable treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, bringing treats to the office, or simply indulging in a well-deserved sweet moment, these cookies deliver exceptional results every time. The recipe’s versatility allows for customization while maintaining the essential elements that make these Ultimate Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies so special.