Name: Irresistible Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies You'll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Softened); ½ cup Granulated Sugar; ½ cup Brown Sugar (Light or dark); 2 large Eggs; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Or almond extract); 1½ cups All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour is a swap); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; ½ teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Chocolate Chips (Semi-sweet or dark); 1 cup Chopped Hazelnuts (Or pecans, walnuts); 1 cup Crushed Cornflakes (Or rice puffs)

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A delightful crunch echoed through my kitchen as I crushed the cornflakes, an unexpected twist for my beloved cookies. These Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also an easy escape from the dreariness of fast food. With their combination of rich chocolate and the nutty flavor of hazelnuts, they offer an irresistible balance of textures, making each bite a joyous experience. Quick to whip up and perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking lineup. So, are you ready to indulge in this heavenly combination of flavors and give your loved ones a delicious surprise?

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Decadent Flavor: Each bite delivers a luscious chocolate experience, seamlessly complemented by the nutty crunch of hazelnuts.

Unique Texture: Delightfully crisp edges give way to a chewy center, while crushed cornflakes add an unexpected crunch that elevates these cookies to new heights.

Quick & Easy: No complicated steps here! With straightforward instructions, you’ll have fresh cookies in no time, perfect for last-minute gatherings or a cozy night in.

Versatile Options: Feel free to play with flavors! Substitute hazelnuts with almonds or add dried cranberries to customize the cookie experience.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether you’re hosting friends, attending a bake sale, or simply needing a sweet pick-me-up, these cookies are guaranteed to satisfy. Pair them with your favorite drink, like a warm mug of Pink Hot Chocolate, for a delightful treat!

Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to indulge!

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; margarine can be used for a dairy-free version.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps the cookies spread perfectly.
Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and depth of flavor; use light for mild or dark for intense taste.
Eggs – Binds everything together and helps the cookies rise.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the cookie’s flavor; substitute with almond extract for a twist.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to your cookies; gluten-free flour is a suitable swap.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a tender texture.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates flavor.

For the Chocolatey Goodness

Chocolate Chips – Adds richness and melts beautifully; choose semi-sweet or dark to match your taste.
Chopped Hazelnuts – Offers nutty flavor and crunch; substitute with pecans or walnuts if desired.
Crushed Cornflakes – Provides an extra crunch reminiscent of crispy granola; feel free to use rice puffs instead.

Now that you have the ingredients for these fantastic Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies, get ready to mix, bake, and enjoy a delicious homemade treat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden edge. While the oven warms up, gather all your ingredients on the counter for a smooth baking experience.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes using a hand mixer or wooden spoon. The goal is to incorporate air into the mixture for a lovely texture, which will elevate your cookies.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Next, beat in 2 eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until well combined. This step not only binds the ingredients but also introduces a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Taking care not to overmix is key here to maintain the tender texture of your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies.

Step 5: Fold in Mix-Ins
Now, gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips, 1 cup of chopped hazelnuts, and 1 cup of crushed cornflakes using a spatula. This step is where the magic happens, as the chocolate and nuts will create delightful surprises in each bite, complemented by the added crunch of cornflakes.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, drop rounded balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The cookies will spread during baking, so room to breathe is crucial. Your cookie dough should start to look inviting and generous already!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn golden while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked. This contrast will give you that perfect chewy texture, characteristic of delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period helps them set perfectly and ensures those delightful flavors mingle just right. Enjoy the aroma as they cool, and get ready to indulge in these sweet, crunchy treats!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh while maintaining that delightful crunch.

Fridge: If you live in a particularly warm environment, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks to preserve their texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies, thaw them at room temperature, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to regain their crispy edges and chewy centers.

Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cookies and make them your own with delightful variations!

Nutty Alternatives: Swap hazelnuts for almonds or walnuts for a crunchy twist; both nuts will offer a delicious flavor enhancement.
Fruity Addition: Add dried cranberries or cherries to the dough for a fruity burst that beautifully contrasts with the rich chocolate.
Choco-Twist: Substitute chocolate chips with butterscotch or peanut butter chips for a whole new flavor profile that may become your new favorite.
Spice it Up: Introduce a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, comforting spice that elevates the overall taste experience.
Cereal Change: Replace crushed cornflakes with rice puffs or granola for different textures—get inventive with what’s in your pantry!
Vegan Option: Use avocado or coconut oil instead of butter and replace eggs with flaxseed meal for a guilt-free, plant-based version.
Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle chopped nuts or additional chocolate chips on top before baking for an eye-catching finish that adds interesting textures.
Stuffed Cookies: Consider turning them into stuffed cookies by placing a piece of chocolate or a hazelnut in the center before baking, granting each bite a gooey surprise.

Pair these creative spins with a luscious cup of Pink Hot Chocolate or enjoy them alongside some Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars for a delightful treat platter that’s sure to impress!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies

Use Softened Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for easy creaming; this will lead to a lighter texture in your cookies.
Avoid Overmixing: Once you add the flour, mix until just combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in tougher Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies.
Control Baking Time: For a softer cookie, underbake slightly. They’ll firm up as they cool on the baking sheet, giving you a chewy center.
Adjust for Room Temperature: If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the cookie dough for a bit before baking. This helps maintain structure and prevents excessive spreading.
Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate chips and fresh hazelnuts to enhance the overall flavor of your cookies; it makes a world of difference!
Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to swap hazelnuts or add dried fruits to create variations. Every substitution can bring a unique twist to your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can scoop the cookie dough onto a lined baking sheet and freeze them for up to 3 months. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap before placing them in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, simply transfer the frozen dough directly to a lined baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll have warm, gooey cookies with the same delicious flavor and texture whenever you need a quick treat!

What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies?

Imagine the delightful aroma of warm cookies filling your home, ready to be paired with irresistible accompaniments that elevate your indulgence.

Rich Espresso: The bold flavors of espresso beautifully complement the sweetness of the cookies, creating a luxurious pairing that coffee lovers will adore.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the crunchy cookies, making for a scrumptious dessert experience.
Fresh Berries: Bright and juicy strawberries or raspberries offer a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness of the chocolate and hazelnuts.
Milk: A classic pairing! Cold milk brings out the sweet chocolate notes while balancing the crunchy texture, making it a kid-friendly choice.
Nutty Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a warm, nutty hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for a cozy treat, ideally suited for chilly days and comfy nights.
Cheese Platter: Create a surprising flavor balance with a cheese platter featuring creamy brie or tangy goat cheese; this savory twist pairs beautifully with the cookies’ sweetness.
Dark Chocolate Mint Tea: This aromatic tea not only refreshes but also compliments the chocolatey flavors of the cookies, providing a cleansing finish after each bite.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to these delicious combinations that promise to elevate your cookie-eating experience!

Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right hazelnuts?
When selecting hazelnuts for your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies, look for fresh, whole nuts that are free from dark spots or blemishes. You can typically find them in the baking aisle or the bulk section of your grocery store. If possible, buy them roasted for enhanced flavor, but raw ones work as well. Always check that they smell nutty and pleasant, indicating freshness!

What’s the best way to store these cookies?
To keep your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This helps maintain their delightful crunch. If you live in a warm climate, you might want to refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Ensure they’re fully cooled before storage to avoid condensation.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! To freeze your Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies dough, scoop out the rounds onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, about 1-2 hours, then transfer the frozen dough balls to an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored like this for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight from the freezer into the preheated oven—no need to thaw!

Why are my cookies spreading too much?
If your cookies are spreading excessively, it could be due to using melted butter instead of softened butter, or your dough being too warm. Always ensure your butter is softened but not melted; this creates the right air pockets. Additionally, chill your dough for about 30 minutes before baking to help maintain structure, especially in warm weather.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! To create gluten-free Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. This generally works well but avoid using almond flour, as it will alter the texture significantly. Just follow the original recipe, and you’ll have delicious cookies that everyone can enjoy!

Are these cookies safe for my pets?
Unfortunately, Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies are not safe for pets. Chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats, so be cautious and ensure to keep these tasty treats out of reach from your furry friends.