Hazelnut Chocolate Espresso Cookies Recipe

If you’re a fan of rich, nutty, and deeply indulgent flavors, the Hazelnut Chocolate Espresso Cookies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These cookies masterfully combine the earthy crunch of hazelnuts, the bittersweet delight of chocolate, and the robust kick of espresso to create a treat that’s equally perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a special dessert to impress friends. Each bite melts in your mouth with a fantastic balance of textures and flavors, making these cookies not just a snack but a little moment of joy you’ll keep coming back to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are incredibly straightforward, yet each is crucial to achieving the perfect taste and texture. From the buttery richness that makes these cookies so tender to the espresso powder that brings out the depth of flavor, every element has a purpose.

• 300 g hazelnut flour (unblanched): Provides a naturally nutty taste and a tender crumb that’s gluten-free and flavorful.
• 60 g soft brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel sweetness that balances the espresso and chocolate.
• 225 g unsalted butter, room temperature: Creates a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture and helps the cookies spread just perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder: Intensifies the chocolate’s depth while giving a gentle coffee aroma that wakes up the palate.
• ¼ teaspoon table salt: Enhances all the other flavors and keeps the sweetness from overwhelming.
• 100 g mixed dark and milk chocolate chips: Provides pockets of gooey chocolate surprises throughout each cookie.
• 50 g white chocolate, melted (for drizzle): Adds a creamy, sweet contrast and an elegant finish.
• ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder (for drizzle, optional): Mix with the white chocolate to add a subtle espresso twist to the decoration.

How to Make Hazelnut Chocolate Espresso Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Baking Sheets

Start smart by lining three baking sheets with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also ensures even baking, which is key to those golden edges you’ll love.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a medium bowl, cream the room temperature butter with the soft brown sugar and salt until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step takes about five minutes but is essential because it traps air that helps the cookies rise with a lovely soft texture.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Next, mix in the hazelnut flour and the 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder. These two ingredients bring a rich, nutty depth and a hint of coffee’s boldness. Make sure you combine everything evenly for a perfect dough consistency.

Step 4: Incorporate Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the mixed dark and milk chocolate chips. They scatter sweet, melty pockets of chocolate, giving you a delightfully varied flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Shape Dough into Log

Transfer your dough onto a sheet of cling film, shaping it into a log form. Wrapping it tightly and refrigerating for at least four hours (or preferably overnight) helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes slicing easier.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Heat your oven to 160°C (320°F) with the fan setting on. This moderate temperature encourages even baking without scorching those precious cookies.

Step 7: Slice and Arrange Cookies

Unwrap your chilled dough and slice it into discs about 0.7 cm (¼ inch) thick. Arrange them neatly on your prepared baking sheets, giving enough space for slight spreading.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 12 minutes or until you see a subtle golden edge around each cookie. The center will still be soft, setting up beautifully as they cool.

Step 9: Cool

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain their shape and perfect texture.

Step 10: Prepare Drizzle

Melt the white chocolate gently and stir in the optional ½ teaspoon of espresso powder. This step creates a lovely espresso-infused drizzle that complements the cookies perfectly.

Step 11: Drizzle and Set

Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies and allow it to set before serving. This final decorative touch not only looks elegant but adds another layer of luscious flavor.

How to Serve Hazelnut Chocolate Espresso Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate these cookies even further, sprinkle a few crushed roasted hazelnuts on top of the white chocolate drizzle before it sets. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a pinch of flaky sea salt can also bring out the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a creamy cappuccino or a steaming mug of your favorite dark roast coffee. They also go wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board alongside small bowls of whole hazelnuts, chocolate chunks, and espresso beans. For celebrations, stack them in towers tied with twine or present them in a decorative tin to delight any guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and soft for about 3 to 4 days, perfect for enjoying through the week.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, slice and wrap the dough log tightly in cling film, then place it in a freezer bag. The dough will keep for up to 3 months. You can also freeze fully baked cookies by wrapping them individually to preserve freshness.

Reheating

Warm frozen or stored cookies briefly in a low oven or microwave for about 10 seconds to revive that fresh-baked softness. The chocolate will soften just enough to feel heavenly again.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of hazelnut flour?

Absolutely, but keep in mind that hazelnut flour gives a unique nuttiness and texture you won’t get from regular flour. If substituting, you might want to add chopped hazelnuts for flavor and adjust for a slightly different texture.

Is instant espresso powder necessary in the recipe?

Yes, it plays a crucial role by enhancing the chocolate flavor and adding that subtle coffee aroma. If you don’t have espresso powder, a strong brewed coffee or instant coffee granules can work in a pinch.

Can I make these cookies vegan or dairy-free?

You can substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative and check the chocolate chips ingredients. Using dairy-free chocolate chips will allow you to enjoy a vegan variation, though texture might vary slightly.

How thick should I slice the cookie dough log?

An ideal thickness is about 0.7 cm (¼ inch). Thinner slices may bake up crispier, while thicker ones will be softer and chewier in the center.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Definitely! Chopped toasted hazelnuts will add an extra crunch, or you could try toasted almonds or even dried cherries for an exciting flavor twist. Just fold them in during step 4.

Final Thoughts

This Hazelnut Chocolate Espresso Cookies Recipe is truly a gem that combines decadence and simplicity in one delicious package. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, the harmonious flavors and delightful texture will make these cookies a beloved staple. Give this recipe a try and watch it become your go-to for cozy afternoons or special occasions – I promise you won’t regret it!

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