Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 cup fruit jam (raspberry or strawberry works well)

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Ideas

I absolutely love baking these Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies for any occasion. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts creates a delightful experience with every bite. What I enjoy most is the playful twist of adding a dollop of jam in the center, which elevates the flavor and adds a beautiful contrast. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I'm sure it will be in yours too! Join me in indulging in this simple yet extraordinary treat.

Created by

Genevieve Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:44:39.966Z

When I first tried chocolate hazelnut cookies, I was instantly hooked. I remember experimenting with various combinations until I found the perfect balance of flavors. Using high-quality cocoa and finely chopped hazelnuts really makes a difference! I also slightly chilled the dough before baking, which helps maintain their shape while baking, preventing those flat cookies that can sometimes disappoint.

As I perfected this recipe, I found the secret was to use room-temperature butter and be gentle when forming the thumbprints. Too much pressure can create cracks, which affects not just the appearance but also the indulgent texture. Trust me, these cookies are best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, as the flavors blend harmoniously!

Why You'll Love These Cookies
Decadent chocolate flavor with a nutty crunch
Unique thumbprint design filled with delicious jam
Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying alone

The Role of Ingredients

The combination of unsweetened cocoa powder and chopped hazelnuts in these cookies not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch. Cocoa powder provides depth and richness while ensuring a fudgy texture. Meanwhile, hazelnuts contribute a subtle earthy note that complements the chocolate beautifully. For those who may have nut allergies or preferences, almond flour can be a great substitute for hazelnuts, albeit altering the flavor slightly.

Using room temperature butter is essential for achieving the perfect consistency in the dough. Cold butter can lead to a dense cookie, while softened butter enables you to achieve a light and fluffy mixture when creamed with sugar. Ensure that the butter is soft but not melted, which can cause the cookie to spread too much during baking.

Perfecting the Thumbprint

Creating the thumbprint indentation is a crucial step. To achieve the ideal depth without tearing the cookie, press gently but firmly. I recommend using the tip of a spatula or the back of a small measuring spoon if your thumb isn't suitable for this task, especially if the dough is particularly sticky. Make sure the indentation is wide enough to hold a generous dollop of jam without overflowing.

During baking, keep a close eye on the cookies as they approach the 12-minute mark. You want them to be set but not overbaked; golden edges and a soft center indicate that they're just right. Overbaked cookies can become dry and lose the desired fudgy texture, so trust your instincts and remove them from the oven as soon as they are firm yet slightly soft.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

For the Filling

1/2 cup fruit jam (raspberry or strawberry works well)

Instructions

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, then mix until fully combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder, then gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing until just blended. Stir in the chopped hazelnuts.

Shape and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ball. Use your thumb to create an indentation in the center of each cookie. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until set.

Add Jam Filling

Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately fill each thumbprint with a small amount of jam. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can toast the hazelnuts before chopping. This adds a toasty depth to the cookies that takes them over the top!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to bake ahead, these cookies store exceptionally well. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. Just ensure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy them from the freezer, simply let them thaw at room temperature.

For an extra touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cookies once they're cooled. This adds a nice finishing touch while giving you another layer of flavor and texture. If you're making these for a special occasion, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and chill it in the fridge; just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are versatile and can stand alone or be used as part of a dessert platter. Pair them with a side of whipped cream or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Additionally, these cookies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for picnics or potlucks.

Feel free to experiment with different flavors of jam to match the season or your taste preference. Apricot or even a spicy ginger jam can create interesting flavor combinations that pair beautifully with the chocolate hazelnuts. Each variation can turn this already delightful cookie into a unique experience, keeping things fun and exciting in your baking adventures.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, almonds or walnuts can be great alternatives to hazelnuts.

→ What jam should I use for filling?

Raspberry, strawberry, or even hazelnut spread can work beautifully.

→ Can these cookies be frozen?

Absolutely! They freeze well; just ensure they are in an airtight container.

→ Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.