Hazelnut cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich and nutty flavor of hazelnuts with a soft and buttery cookie base. These cookies offer a delightful crunch from the hazelnut meal and a delectable drizzle of dark chocolate, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as an indulgent dessert, hazelnut cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.

The history of hazelnut cookies can be traced back to European cuisine, where hazelnuts have been used in various sweet treats for centuries. Hazelnuts, also known as filberts, have been enjoyed in desserts, pastries, and confections across cultures.

Over time, the combination of hazelnuts and cookies became a popular choice among bakers and cookie enthusiasts alike. The rich and slightly sweet flavor of hazelnuts perfectly complements the buttery cookie dough, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.

INGREDIENTS

• ½ cup hazelnut meal
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg yolk

DRIZZLE:

• ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips
• 2 teaspoons coconut oil

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the hazelnut meal, all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder until well combined.
3. Dice the cold butter into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and egg yolk until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms.
5. Scoop out 12 equal-sized balls of dough and lightly roll them between your hands to form smooth balls.
6. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart to allow for spreading.
7. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they are lightly golden and set.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

DRIZZLE:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil at 50% power, stirring every 20 seconds until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
2. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled cookies using a spoon, creating a decorative pattern on top.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

• Hazelnut cookies are a delightful and sophisticated treat that will impress your taste buds with the rich flavors of hazelnuts and the indulgent touch of dark chocolate drizzle. Whether you’re looking for a special dessert for a gathering or simply want to treat yourself to a delicious cookie, these hazelnut cookies are the perfect choice. Enjoy the nutty crunch and buttery goodness of hazelnut cookies with a hint of decadent chocolate, and savor every delightful bite.