Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup finely chopped hazelnuts; 1 egg yolk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella); 1/4 cup fruit jam (raspberry or your choice)

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies! They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful experience with every bite. The rich chocolate combined with the nutty flavor of hazelnuts creates an indulgence that’s hard to resist. I love the little surprise of the jam nestled in the center, and they always look so charming on a cookie platter. These cookies are perfect for gatherings or simply as a sweet pick-me-up for myself throughout the week.

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:22:36.676Z

When I first decided to bake these Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies, I was searching for a recipe that would delight not only my palate but also visually impress my friends. The combination of rich chocolate with the crunch of hazelnuts was an instant hit. I learned that to achieve that perfect thumbprint, gently pressing the dough before baking keeps the cookies beautifully shaped.

One key tip I discovered during my baking journey was to chill the dough for about 30 minutes before forming the cookies. This step ensures that they hold their shape while baking and don’t spread too much. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

        Why You Will Love These Cookies
        Decadent chocolate and nut blend for an exquisite taste
Jam center adds a delightful burst of flavor
Elegant presentation makes them perfect for any occasion

      

Crafting the Perfect Dough

The foundation of any great cookie lies in its dough, and for Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies, the right balance of ingredients is crucial. The combination of all-purpose flour and cocoa powder gives these cookies their rich, chocolaty base while ensuring they hold their shape. Be sure to sift the cocoa powder before mixing; this removes any clumps and helps to achieve a smooth, consistent texture.

As you cream the butter and sugar, aim for a light and fluffy mixture. This step introduces air into the dough, which is essential for achieving the perfect cookie texture: soft in the center with a slight crisp on the edges. Don't rush this step; take 3-5 minutes to ensure your butter is adequately aerated before adding the egg yolk and vanilla.

Chilling is Key

Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes is a crucial step that often goes overlooked. Chilling firms up the butter in the dough, which helps the cookies maintain their shape instead of spreading out too much during baking. If you’re short on time, aim for a minimum chill of 20 minutes, but if you can, letting it rest for a full hour will yield even better results.

When you're ready to shape the cookies, your dough should feel slightly firm and easy to handle. If the dough feels too soft after chilling, return it to the fridge for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will help prevent them from flattening and ensure that the indentations hold their shape better when baking.

Baking and Finishing Touches

Baking these cookies at the right temperature is essential for ensuring they don’t overcook. The 350°F (175°C) setting is perfect; it allows the cookies to rise and develop a tender crumb without drying them out. Keep an eye on them, as they typically take between 12-15 minutes to bake, and look for slight cracks on the surface and set edges to judge when they’re ready.

After baking, let the cookies cool on wire racks to allow air to circulate, preventing sogginess. They can be a little soft when hot but will firm up as they cool. If you're feeling adventurous, try pairing different fruit jams or even a chocolate ganache in the center for an elegant twist on the classic thumbprint.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious cookies:

For the Cookies

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup finely chopped hazelnuts
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
1/4 cup fruit jam (raspberry or your choice)

Make sure to have everything measured and ready for an efficient baking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your cookies:

Prep the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients and fold in the chopped hazelnuts.

Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll small portions of dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your thumb or a spoon to make a deep indentation in each ball. Fill the centers with hazelnut spread and a dollop of fruit jam.

Finish Baking

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Once done, let them cool on wire racks before enjoying!

Enjoy your cookies fresh from the oven or store them in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use a high-quality cocoa powder and feel free to experiment with different jams that complement the hazelnut flavor!

Ingredient Tips

Hazelnuts play a star role in these cookies, adding both texture and a toasty flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. If you don’t have hazelnuts, feel free to substitute with chopped walnuts or pecans, although the flavor profile will change slightly. Just make sure your substitution is finely chopped to ensure even distribution throughout the dough.

When it comes to the jam center, the choice is entirely up to you. Raspberry jam is classic, but I love experimenting with other flavors like strawberry or apricot. Each variation brings a unique flavor combination that can elevate the overall experience. For a less sweet option, consider using a citrus-based jam, which balances out the richness of the chocolate.

Make-Ahead and Storing

These cookies are a fantastic make-ahead treat. You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw the dough; simply shape the cookies and bake at the same temperature, adding a minute or so to the bake time if your dough is frozen.

Once baked, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer-lasting freshness, consider freezing the baked cookies. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking. They can be enjoyed straight from the freezer or allowed to thaw at room temperature.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but the texture will change slightly. It's recommended to use a combination of almond and all-purpose flour for the best results.

→ How should I store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge before baking.

→ What can I use instead of hazelnut spread?

You can substitute with peanut butter or any other nut butter, but the flavor will differ.