Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies with Silky Ganache

Name: Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies with Silky Ganache
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and finely ground; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies with Silky Ganache are a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of hazelnuts with a smooth, luscious chocolate ganache. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies will impress your family and friends.

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:42:58.360Z

These Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies hold a special place in my heart. Growing up, my grandmother would make them during the holidays, filling the kitchen with the irresistible aroma of roasted hazelnuts. The silky ganache adds a luxurious touch, making these cookies a perfect indulgence for any gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich hazelnut flavor complemented by smooth chocolate ganache
A beautiful presentation that impresses guests
Perfect balance of crunchy cookie and creamy filling
Easy to make with simple ingredients

      

The Perfect Cookie for Any Occasion

Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies with Silky Ganache are not just a treat; they are a showstopper at any gathering. Whether it's a holiday party, a birthday celebration, or a simple afternoon tea, these cookies bring an element of elegance and indulgence to the table. Their unique flavor profile makes them stand out, ensuring that guests will be asking for the recipe long after the last cookie has been devoured.

The combination of crunchy hazelnut cookies and a rich chocolate ganache creates a delightful contrast in textures. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by the smoothness of the ganache, making these cookies a luxurious experience. They are not only delicious but also visually appealing, with the glossy ganache glistening in the center of each cookie.

Simple Ingredients, Stunning Results

One of the best aspects of Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies is that they are made with simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. The recipe calls for just a few basic items, including hazelnuts, flour, butter, and chocolate. This accessibility makes it easy for home bakers of all skill levels to create something truly special without the need for exotic or hard-to-find components.

The key to the flavor lies in the quality of the ingredients. Using fresh, high-quality dark chocolate and real butter will elevate the taste of your cookies significantly. Additionally, toasting the hazelnuts enhances their natural flavor, ensuring that each cookie is packed with rich, nutty goodness. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, these cookies are a must-try.

Tips for Perfect Thumbprint Cookies

To achieve the perfect thumbprint cookies, it’s important to ensure that the dough is not overmixed after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so mix just until combined. Also, make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking if you find it too soft. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances the overall texture.

When creating the thumbprint indentation, use your thumb gently to avoid cracking the edges of the cookie. If you prefer a more uniform shape, consider using the back of a small measuring spoon. Lastly, when filling the thumbprints with ganache, allow the cookies to cool completely to prevent the ganache from melting into the cookie.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and finely ground
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For the Ganache

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the ground hazelnuts, flour, salt, and baking powder until a dough forms.

Shape and Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make an indentation in the center of each ball using your thumb. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Make the Ganache

While the cookies are baking, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter, stirring until smooth and glossy.

Fill the Cookies

Once the cookies are out of the oven and cooled, fill each thumbprint with the silky ganache. Allow the ganache to set before serving.

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies are filled with ganache, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer ganache, refrigerating the cookies will help set the filling even more. Just remember to allow them to come to room temperature for an optimal serving experience.

These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect addition to your afternoon break. For a special touch, consider dusting them with powdered sugar just before serving, or garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavors.

Variations to Try

While the classic chocolate ganache is undeniably delicious, feel free to experiment with different fillings. Options like salted caramel, raspberry jam, or even a citrus curd can provide a delightful twist to your thumbprint cookies. Each variation brings its own unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize the cookies for different occasions.

Additionally, consider swapping out the hazelnuts for other nuts like almonds or pecans if you want to try a different nutty flavor. Just be sure to adjust the grinding process accordingly to achieve the right consistency for your dough.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate, but the flavor will be sweeter.

→ How do I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the cookies before filling them with ganache. Just thaw and fill them before serving.

→ What can I use instead of hazelnuts?

You can substitute with almonds or walnuts for a different flavor.