Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup ground hazelnuts; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup heavy cream

Highlighted under: Oven Treats

I absolutely love making Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies because they marry the rich flavors of chocolate and the nutty crunch of hazelnuts in the most delightful way. Every time I bake these cookies, the seductive aroma fills my kitchen, tempting everyone nearby. The thumbprint filled with sweet chocolate ganache not only adds a beautiful touch but creates a satisfying contrast between the buttery cookie and the gooey filling. In under 30 minutes, I can create a batch that’s perfect for sharing, or for indulging all by myself!

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:22:15.480Z

When I first discovered the recipe for these Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies, I just had to try it. The combination of chocolate and hazelnuts works beautifully, with the cookies achieving a perfect balance between crisp and chewy. I quickly learned that chilling the dough before baking not only makes it easier to handle but helps maintain that irresistible shape.

In my continuous experimentation, I've found that a pinch of sea salt on top of the ganache elevates the flavors even further, making each bite a delightful experience. It's one of those recipes that truly impresses, yet remains simple enough for everyday baking.

Why You'll Love These Cookies
A perfect combination of chocolate and nutty hazelnuts
Delicious gooey chocolate ganache center
Ideal for sharing or cozy nights in

The Importance of Chilling the Dough

Chilling the dough is a crucial step in achieving the perfect texture for your Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies. By resting the dough in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, the butter solidifies, which helps maintain the shape of the cookies while baking. Without this step, your cookies may spread too much, resulting in flat, greasy discs rather than the desirable puffy forms with a lovely thumbprint indentation.

Additionally, chilling allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the nutty notes of the hazelnuts and the richness of the chocolate. If you're short on time, you can chill the dough for just 10 minutes, but aim for the full 15 minutes for the best outcome.

Achieving the Perfect Ganache

Making the chocolate ganache is straightforward but requires attention to detail. To ensure a silky texture, heat the cream gently until it's warm but not boiling—this usually takes around 2-3 minutes on medium heat. Pouring hot cream directly over the chocolate chips allows them to melt evenly, ensuring no graininess in your ganache.

For a richer flavor, consider using a dark chocolate with a cocoa percentage of 60% or higher. If you'd like a slightly different taste, try substituting half the dark chocolate with some milk chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier ganache. This variation pairs beautifully with the nutty cookies.

Storage and Variations

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you'd like to prepare them in advance, you can freeze the unbaked dough. Simply roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour, and then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. You can bake them directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

For a fun twist, you can experiment with different fillings in the thumbprints. Try using caramel sauce, fruit preserves, or even a flavored ganache, such as espresso or orange zest. This allows you to customize the cookies to your taste or use whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious cookies:

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup ground hazelnuts
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Ganache

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup heavy cream

Once you have all ingredients prepared, you're ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your cookies:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and combine. Gradually add the flour, ground hazelnuts, and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

Shape the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your thumb to create an indentation in the center of each cookie.

Bake and Fill

Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. While the cookies cool, make the ganache by heating cream until warm and pour over chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and fill each cookie’s thumbprint with ganache.

Serve

Allow the ganache to set slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies!

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.

Pro Tips

For an added twist, consider folding in some finely chopped dark chocolate into the dough for extra richness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cookies spread too much during baking, ensure that your butter is properly softened and not melted. Experimenting with chilling times can also help; if you're in a warm environment, consider increasing the chill time. Alternatively, you could add a bit more flour to the dough to help it hold its shape better.

On the other hand, if the thumbprints aren't deep enough after baking, use a teaspoon to gently redefine the center while the cookies are still warm. The warm dough is more pliable, and this adjustment can create the perfect little well for your ganache.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are delightful on their own, but for a more impressive presentation, consider dusting them with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder or powdered sugar before serving. This adds a nice visual contrast and enhances the chocolate flavor without overwhelming the palate.

Pair the cookies with a rich beverage such as coffee or hot chocolate to elevate your dessert experience. The warmth of the drink complements the gooey chocolate ganache while bringing out the nutty essence of the cookies. For a festive touch, serve them on a decorative platter with some fresh berries or nuts for added color and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut instead of hazelnuts?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes if you prefer.

→ How do I store the cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can chill the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

→ What’s the best way to serve these cookies?

Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat!