Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies – Irresistibly Crunchy Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted Butter (softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Brown Sugar; 1 large Egg; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free blend); 1/2 cup Cocoa Powder (unsweetened); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Roasted Hazelnuts (roughly chopped); 8 ounces Dark Chocolate (60%-70%); 1 teaspoon Coconut Oil (optional)

As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of chocolate and freshly roasted hazelnuts filled the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy café on a winter afternoon. That’s when I decided to bake a batch of Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies. These delightful cookies combine a chewy center and crisp edges, all wrapped in a luscious coat of dark chocolate embellished with crunchy hazelnuts. They’re not just perfect for cookie exchanges or holiday gifting; they offer a homemade touch that outshines any store-bought treat. Plus, they’re easily adaptable if you’re looking for a gluten-free option! Can you imagine sharing these exquisite bites with loved ones? Let’s dive into how you can whip up these irresistible gems in your own home.

Why You’ll Crave These Cookies

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate and toasted hazelnuts creates a rich, nutty profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
Chewy and Crunchy: With a soft center and crispy edges, these cookies offer that perfect bite everyone craves.
Customizable Delight: Easily swap out nuts or chocolate to create your ideal flavor. Try them with almonds or even a hint of espresso for an extra kick!
Perfect for Gifting: Wrapped in a festive box, these cookies make thoughtful homemade gifts, sure to impress family and friends during the holiday season.
Time-Saving Joy: Bake a batch quickly, freeze extras, and enjoy this gourmet treat anytime without the fuss. Don’t forget to check out my Chocolate Cranberry Cookies for more delightful options!

Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Butter – Provides richness and moisture; use unsalted for a precise salt balance.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and texture; coconut sugar can deepen the flavor.
• Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness and chewiness, giving cookies a moist texture.
• Egg – Acts as a binder; consider plant-based options for a vegan alternative.
• All-Purpose Flour – Offers structure; substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for gluten-free option.
• Cocoa Powder – Infuses chocolate flavor; ensure it’s unsweetened for best results.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to give cookies lift.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Roasted Hazelnuts – Adds nutty flavor and crunch; roast at 350°F for maximum flavor.

For the Coating
• Dark Chocolate (60%-70%) – Provides a rich layer for coating; avoid variations outside this range for best taste.
• Coconut Oil – Optional but recommended for a smooth, glossy finish when melting chocolate.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure optimal baking conditions for your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies. This temperature is perfect for achieving those delightfully crisp edges while keeping the centers chewy. As the oven warms up, gather your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper for easy cookie transfer.

Step 2: Roast Hazelnuts
Place your raw hazelnuts on a baking tray and roast them in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be golden and fragrant, not burnt. Once roasted, let the hazelnuts cool completely before roughly chopping them. This step adds rich flavor and texture to your cookies.

Step 3: Make Dough
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat softened unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add in one egg and a splash of vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Then, sift in all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, folding gently until just combined. Finally, fold in the chopped hazelnuts for that signature crunch.

Step 4: Shape Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of cookie dough and roll them into neat discs, ensuring they are about ½ inch thick for even baking. Place the discs on your prepared baking sheets, spaced apart to allow for spreading as they bake. The dough should be manageable yet slightly sticky, which is ideal for achieving the perfect texture in your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies.

Step 5: Bake
Slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to set while the centers remain slightly soft. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool. When done, remove them from the oven and allow them to rest on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Cool
Let your baked cookies cool completely on a wire rack. This allows the cookies to firm up and makes them easier to dip later. Patience is key here; you’ll want to ensure they’re fully cooled to prevent the chocolate from melting off when coated, so sip on a cup of tea while you wait!

Step 7: Melt Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate with a teaspoon of coconut oil (if using) and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. This method ensures the chocolate doesn’t burn and remains glossy. You want the chocolate liquefied but not too hot, making it perfect for coating those delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies.

Step 8: Coat Cookies
Dip half of each cooled cookie into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. As you lay the dipped cookies on parchment paper, sprinkle the tops with reserved chopped hazelnuts for added crunch and visual appeal. This step not only adds flavor but creates an inviting display of your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies.

Step 9: Set
Allow the chocolate-coated cookies to set at room temperature until the chocolate fully hardens. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop them in the fridge for a quicker set, about 15-20 minutes. The result will be beautifully adorned cookies, ready to delight friends and family or to serve during the holiday season.

What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies

Pairing these cookies with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience to new heights, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight everyone at the table.

Hot Cocoa: A rich, creamy cup of hot cocoa enhances the chocolatey goodness of these cookies, creating a cozy pairing perfect for winter evenings. Just imagine warming your hands around the mug as you savor the sweet crunch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the crunch of the cookies, making every bite a delightful indulgence. Top with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an added treat!
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the cookies, balancing the dessert nicely. Their bright flavors complement the chocolate and hazelnuts splendidly, making for a harmonic dessert pairing.
Espresso: The boldness of a well-brewed espresso brings out the flavors of the dark chocolate, enhancing your overall tasting experience. This pairing is ideal for those who adore the combination of bittersweet chocolate with a rich coffee undertone.
Nutty Trail Mix: A handful of nutty trail mix on the side can provide crunch and chewiness, adding texture that beautifully complements the cookies. This healthy option also makes for a delightful addition to a dessert platter.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a touch of salted caramel sauce over these cookies elevates their sweetness and adds a layer of decadence. It’s an irresistible combination that will have guests licking their fingers in delight.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, offers a soothing contrast to the sweet crunch of chocolate hazelnut cookies. This peaceful pairing is perfect for a relaxing afternoon treat with friends or family.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dough as per the instructions, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you’re looking to prep even further ahead, the baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature or frozen for up to 3 months. To maintain quality when freezing, layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature, dip in melted chocolate, and sprinkle with hazelnuts for a delightful finishing touch. Enjoy stress-free baking whenever the craving strikes!

Storage Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Layering: If stacking, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and preserve the beautiful coating of your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies.

Reheating: To revive cookies, warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to restore their delightful chewiness.

Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with your cookies and make them uniquely yours!

Nut Swap: Substitute almonds or pecans for hazelnuts for a new flavor experience.
Chocolate Change: Try using milk chocolate or white chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter treat.
Espresso Enhancement: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough for an extra depth of flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Vegan Twist: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg or applesauce for a vegan-friendly version without compromising on taste.
Gluten-Free Glory: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend in place of all-purpose flour for a delightful gluten-free cookie option.
Spice It Up: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or a hint of nutmeg for a warm, holiday-like essence.
Add-Ins: Mix in dried fruit like cranberries or cherries for a sweet and tart balance against the chocolate and nuts.
Zesty Brightness: Grate some orange zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens the flavors.

For more delicious variations, you might want to check out my No-Bake Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Cups or how to create a lovely Patriotic Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie for different celebrations!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies

Perfect Roasting: Roast hazelnuts until golden: Properly roasting enhances flavor significantly. Undercooked hazelnuts can make the cookies taste flat.
Cooling is Key: Ensure cookies cool completely before coating: If the cookies are warm, the chocolate may slide right off. Patience pays off with well-coated treats!
Chocolate Quality: Use good quality dark chocolate: Opt for 60%-70% cocoa for a rich flavor; anything lower won’t provide the depth these Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies deserve.
Coconut Oil Magic: Add coconut oil to chocolate: This optional ingredient is key for a glossy and smooth chocolate finish that makes your cookies shine.
Consistent Sizing: Keep the dough uniform: Roll dough into consistent discs to ensure even baking and delightful consistency in each bite!

Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right hazelnuts?
For the best flavor, always pick roasted hazelnuts or roast raw ones yourself. Look for hazelnuts that have a golden-brown color and a firm texture. Avoid any with dark spots or a soft feel, as these may be stale. Roasting at 350°F for 10 minutes will enhance their nuttiness significantly.

How should I store Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies?
Store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Make sure they are cooled completely to preserve that chewy texture. If you want to enjoy them later, layer the cookies with parchment paper and freeze them for up to 3 months. Just allow them to thaw at room temperature before you indulge!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, and set them in the freezer until solid. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will keep well for about 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, it may be due to the butter being too soft or the dough being too warm. To combat this, chill your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before shaping and baking. This helps them maintain their form during baking, allowing for those lovely chewy centers and crisp edges.

Are Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies suitable for those with allergies?
While this recipe includes common allergens such as eggs and nuts, you can adapt it by using appropriate substitutes. For a gluten-free option, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. If you have nut allergies, consider using sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens, keeping the rest of the recipe intact. Always check ingredient labels for any hidden allergens!

What’s the best way to enjoy leftover cookies?
The more the merrier! If you have leftover cookies, try warming them in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F for about 5 minutes) to restore their lovely chewiness. You could also crumble them over ice cream for a festive dessert or serve them alongside a cup of hot cocoa during cozy evenings. Enjoy your baking adventures!