Mocha Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

If you’re a fan of cookies that bring together bold coffee flavors with the warmth of toasted nuts, then Mocha Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are your new best friend. This delightful treat combines a rich, coffee-kissed dough with the nutty charm of hazelnuts, all crowned by a gooey, irresistible filling pressed right into the center. Whether you want a cozy snack with your afternoon brew or a charming dessert to impress guests, these cookies offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A perfect flavor blend: The mocha and hazelnut combination creates a harmonious taste that’s both robust and comforting.
• Gooey thumbprint center: Each cookie features a luscious filling that melts in your mouth, adding a delightful surprise in every bite.
• Simple ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, this recipe is easy to execute but yields gourmet results.
• Great texture contrast: Crispy edges with a tender bite highlight the richness of the cookie base.
• Customizable and versatile: The recipe lends itself well to tweaks based on your preferences or available ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Mocha Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies recipe is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and warmth. Each component plays a crucial role, whether enhancing the coffee notes or adding the signature nutty crunch.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and the ideal crumb for tender cookies.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a smooth texture while allowing you to control the salt levels.
• Sugar: Sweetens the dough, balancing the bitterness of coffee and cocoa.
• Instant coffee granules: Imparts that deep mocha flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Cocoa powder: Enhances the mocha taste and adds beautiful color to the dough.
• Ground hazelnuts: Brings a toasty, nutty element that defines the cookie’s character.
• Vanilla extract: Provides sweet aromatic notes that marry the coffee and nut flavors.
• Egg yolk: Contributes richness and helps bind the dough perfectly.
• Jam or chocolate ganache: The thumbprint filling that delivers luscious moisture and flavor contrast.

Variations for Mocha Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

One of the best things about Mocha Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies is how easily you can customize the recipe to suit your cravings or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with these ideas to create your signature batch.

• Dairy-free twist: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based cream for ganache to keep it vegan-friendly.
• Nut swap: Use almonds or pecans instead of hazelnuts for a different but equally delicious nutty flavor.
• Alternative fillings: Replace the jam with caramel, peanut butter, or Nutella for varied taste sensations.
• Spiced mocha: Add cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a fragrant, exotic touch.
• Extra crunch: Sprinkle chopped toasted hazelnuts on the thumbprint filling before baking.

How to Make Mocha Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the dough

Begin by creaming the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is fully combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, instant coffee granules, and ground hazelnuts. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring gently until a dough forms.

Step 2: Chill the dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the dough firm up, making it easier to shape and preventing excessive spreading during baking.

Step 3: Shape the cookies and create thumbprints

Preheat your oven and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the chilled dough into uniform balls and place them on the sheet, spacing them evenly. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press an indentation into the center of each ball, creating the perfect little well for the filling.

Step 4: Fill and bake

Spoon your chosen jam or chocolate ganache into each indentation. Bake the cookies until the edges are set but still soft in the center, usually about 12 to 15 minutes. The fillings should look glossy and slightly melted but not runny.

Step 5: Cool and enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the irresistible combination of crunchy edges, nutty dough, and gooey mocha filling.

Pro Tips for Making Mocha Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

• Use fresh ground hazelnuts: For the fullest flavor, freshly grind hazelnuts rather than buying pre-ground ones.
• Don’t overfill the thumbprints: Keep the filling shallow to prevent overflow and soggy cookies.
• Chill the dough thoroughly: This prevents spreading and helps maintain that charming thumbprint shape.
• Measure coffee granules carefully: A little goes a long way to bring mocha depth without bitterness.
• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures even mixing and a consistent dough texture.

How to Serve Mocha Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Garnishes

Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar or cocoa powder over the cooled cookies to give them a delicate, festive touch. You can also add finely chopped toasted hazelnuts on top of the filling for extra texture and a beautiful finish.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or a creamy latte to enhance their mocha essence. For an indulgent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with sprigs of fresh mint or edible flowers for special occasions. You can also stack smaller thumbprint cookies in a jar or box with parchment separators as charming homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Mocha Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to five days. Store them in a single layer or with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm the cookies briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes to refresh their soft, gooey center. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cookies chewy or soggy.

FAQs

Can I use whole hazelnuts instead of ground?

While you can use chopped hazelnuts for a crunchier texture, ground hazelnuts blend better into the dough, creating a tender, cohesive cookie.

What is the best type of jam to use for the filling?

Fruity jams like raspberry or cherry offer a bright contrast to the mocha and hazelnut flavors, but feel free to use your favorite or even chocolate ganache for a richer taste.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking to keep the texture soft and the flavor intact.

How do I store cookies to keep the thumbprint filling from drying out?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature and avoid refrigeration, which can dry out the filling and dough.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Absolutely. Just be sure to evenly space the cookies while baking and watch the baking time closely as oven performance may vary.

Final Thoughts

Mocha Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies offer a captivating blend of flavors and textures that make every bite feel like a little celebration. Whether you’re indulging by yourself or sharing with friends, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire. So grab your ingredients, embrace that warm, nutty mocha goodness, and bake your way to cookie perfection today!

Related Posts

• Mini Lemon Curd Tarts
• Oreo Cheesecake Bites
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs

Print