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; 1/2 cup finely ground hazelnuts; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Modern Kitchen

I’ve always been a fan of thumbprint cookies, but when I combined them with rich chocolate and nutty hazelnuts, I knew I had a winner. This recipe combines the decadent taste of chocolate with the crunchy texture of hazelnuts in the cookie dough, and the gooey chocolate filling takes it to a whole new level. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these cookies are delightful and satisfying, and I can't wait for you to try them!

Created by

Rhiannon Sutherland

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:52:36.591Z

When I first attempted these Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies, I was eager to blend my love for chocolate with my obsession for hazelnuts. After several trials of the dough, I realized that to get the perfect texture, the nuts needed to be ground finely without turning them into butter. This small detail made a huge difference in both flavor and consistency!

The filling was another adventure—I tried various chocolates and found that using a mix of dark chocolate and milk chocolate created a delightful contrast. The creamy filling complements the crisp cookie base beautifully, making every bite feel indulgent.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        The delightful contrast of crunchy cookie and smooth chocolate filling
Rich hazelnut flavor that perfectly enhances the chocolate
Versatile enough for any occasion, from tea time to dessert parties

      

The Role of Hazelnuts and Chocolate

In this recipe, finely ground hazelnuts not only contribute texture but also a rich, nutty flavor that complements the dark chocolate. Hazelnuts have a natural oil that helps keep the cookies moist, resulting in a tender bite. Choosing high-quality nuts is key; look for raw, unseasoned hazelnuts for the best results. If you don’t have hazelnuts on hand, almonds or walnuts can be used as alternatives, though they will impart a different flavor profile.

The chocolate filling plays a pivotal role in elevating these cookies to a gourmet treat. Dark chocolate chips create a silky ganache that adds richness, while the heavy cream ensures a smooth consistency. Aim for chocolate with at least 60% cacao for a blend of sweetness and depth. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut cream can replace heavy cream effectively, giving a unique twist to the filling.

Tips for Perfectly Shaped Cookies

When shaping the cookie dough, rolling the balls evenly is crucial for uniform baking. Aim for 1-inch balls, as this size creates a delightful balance between crispy edges and a soft center. Use a cookie scoop for consistent sizing, and avoid overly compacting the dough; gentle rolling is key to maintaining the light texture. If you notice the dough is too soft to handle, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before rolling to make it more manageable.

Creating the thumbprint indentation is as important as the baking process. Pressing down gently with your thumb ensures the filling has a place to nestle in, but be careful not to go too deep—just a slight dip is ideal for holding the ganache without compromising the cookie's structure. In case the indents puff back up during baking, you can re-press them with a spoon immediately after they come out of the oven; this will help retain the signature thumbprint shape.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to start making these delicious cookies!

For the Cookies

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup finely ground hazelnuts
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can begin crafting these delightful cookies!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies.

Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, ground hazelnuts, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients to form a dough.

Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using your thumb or the back of a wooden spoon, make an indentation in the center of each ball. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft.

Prepare the Filling

While the cookies cool, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the dark chocolate chips and vanilla extract. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.

Fill the Cookies

Carefully fill the thumbprints of the cookies with the chocolate ganache. Allow the filling to set before serving.

Enjoy these delicious treats fresh or share them with friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle sea salt over the chocolate filling right before it sets for a sweet and salty combination.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer time, they freeze wonderfully. Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking, and they will last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked experience.

For make-ahead convenience, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to three days before baking. This also enhances the flavor as the ingredients can meld together. If you've already formed the cookie balls, you can freeze them before baking. Just roll the dough balls as per the recipe, place them on a cookie sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-lock bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this recipe shines with its chocolate and hazelnut combination, feel free to add your personal twist. Try incorporating orange zest into the cookie dough for a zesty flavor burst, or swap the dark chocolate for white chocolate chips for a sweeter variation. Chopped dried fruits like cherries or apricots can also be added to the filling to introduce an unexpected fruitiness that balances the richness.

These cookies are not just a standalone treat; they can be paired with beverages for a delightful experience. Enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea, as the warm beverages will beautifully complement the chocolate. For a more festive presentation, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving to enhance their visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?

Yes, you can substitute hazelnuts with almonds or walnuts for a different flavor.

→ How should I store these 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 refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days before baking.

→ What can I serve with these cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk.