If you crave a sweet treat that’s quick and full of flavor, you’ve found it! These Milk Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts, they’re bound to please everyone. In this guide, I’ll share the simple steps, tools, and tips for baking these delicious cookies at home. Let’s get started on your new favorite cookie!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredients List
To make these milk chocolate hazelnut cookies, gather these key ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup hazelnuts, roughly chopped
These ingredients blend to create a rich, nutty flavor. The mix of brown sugar and granulated sugar helps the cookies stay soft and chewy.
Optional Ingredients
You might want to add a pinch of flavor with:
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
This spice adds warmth and depth. It pairs well with chocolate and hazelnuts, but it is not a must.
Recommended Tools for Preparation
To whip up these cookies, have these tools ready:
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer or whisk
– Cookie scoop or spoon
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Cooling rack
These tools help streamline the process, making it easier to create these tasty treats. Happy baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking cookies. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment keeps the cookies from sticking. It also makes cleanup easy.
Creaming the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, add the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix these together well. Cream them until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step adds air to your dough. It helps make the cookies soft and chewy. After that, add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat until everything is well combined.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Grab another bowl for the dry ingredients. In this bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon if you choose to use it. Once mixed, slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix! This keeps your cookies tender.
Folding in Chocolate Chips and Hazelnuts
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Gently fold in the milk chocolate chips and chopped hazelnuts. Make sure they are evenly mixed into the dough. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Baking the Cookies: Timing and Temperature
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each scoop. Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Look for lightly golden edges and set centers. After baking, let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up. Enjoy your warm cookies!
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure Perfect Cookie Texture
To get the right cookie texture, start with softened butter. It helps mix well. Cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. This adds air and makes cookies soft. Mix wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Over-mixing makes cookies tough. Bake them until the edges are golden. This keeps the center chewy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake is using cold butter. This leads to dense cookies. Another is not measuring flour correctly. Too much flour makes cookies dry. Also, avoid skipping the chilling step. Chilling dough for 30 minutes helps the cookies keep their shape while baking. Lastly, don’t open the oven door early. This can cause cookies to flatten.
Presentation Tips for Serving
To serve your cookies nicely, use a decorative tin or platter. This adds a fun touch. Place whole hazelnuts around the cookies for a pop of color. You can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a fancy look. Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
Variations
Substitutions for Hazelnuts
If you don’t have hazelnuts, you can use other nuts. Almonds, walnuts, or pecans work great. Just chop them roughly like the hazelnuts. Each nut brings a unique taste and crunch to your cookies. You can also try sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Using Different Types of Chocolate
While milk chocolate shines in this recipe, you can switch it up. Dark chocolate adds a rich depth, and semi-sweet chocolate balances sweetness well. Feel free to mix types, too. You can use half milk chocolate and half dark chocolate for a fun twist.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Options
To make these cookies gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for one with xanthan gum for the best texture. For vegan cookies, swap the butter for coconut oil. Use a flax egg instead of the regular egg. Just mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with two and a half tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes before adding it to your dough.
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Cookies
To keep your milk chocolate hazelnut cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture. You can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you want to keep them extra fresh, place a slice of bread in the container. The bread keeps the cookies soft!
How Long Do They Last?
When stored properly, these cookies last about one week at room temperature. If you keep them in the fridge, they can last up to two weeks. Just remember that cold can make them a bit hard. So, if you like your cookies soft, stick to room temp storage.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these cookies for up to three months. First, let the cookies cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you want a cookie, just thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes. Enjoy your treat!
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Yes, you can use other nuts. Almonds or walnuts work well in this recipe. Chop them roughly, just like the hazelnuts. This change will still give you a tasty cookie. Each nut has a unique flavor, so experiment to find what you like best.
What can I replace the butter with?
If you need a butter substitute, try coconut oil or margarine. Both options will keep the cookies soft. If you use coconut oil, choose the refined kind for less coconut flavor. Adjust the amount to match the butter’s weight.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for lightly golden edges and set centers. The cookies should not be too dark. They will continue to cook a bit after you take them out. Trust your eyes, and don’t overbake them for the best taste!
Can I add more chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can add extra chocolate chips if you love chocolate. Just remember that too many can change the dough’s texture. Stick to a total of 1.5 cups for a great balance of flavors.
Are Milk Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies suitable for gifting?
Yes! These cookies are perfect for gifts. Package them in a nice tin or box. Add a ribbon for a special touch. Friends and family will love receiving homemade treats. They also look beautiful on a platter.
In this article, we explored the complete guide to making Milk Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies. We detailed ingredients, shared step-by-step instructions, and provided essential tips. We also discussed variations and storage methods.
Baking cookies can be fun and rewarding. With clear steps and helpful tips, you can create treats that everyone will love. So, grab your tools and get baking! Your perfect cookies await!
