Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies are like a warm hug wrapped in chocolatey goodness, perfect for the holiday season. Imagine biting into a cookie that combines rich chocolate with the nutty crunch of hazelnuts, all while your home fills with the sweet aroma of baked treats wafting through the air. chocolate cupcakes with candy cane.
These cookies are not just a festive delight; they bring back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where we’d bake together every Christmas. The laughter, the mess, and her secret ingredient (which I still haven’t figured out) made those moments unforgettable. Now, I get to share this joy with you by making these scrumptious cookies, ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies are easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients.
- The rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnuts creates an irresistible taste sensation.
- Their log shape gives them a unique visual appeal that’s perfect for festive celebrations.
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round or as delightful holiday gifts!
Ingredients for Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies
For more inspiration, check out this Easter Shortbread Cookies recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This is your base ingredient that gives the cookies structure. Make sure to sift it for a lighter texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for intense chocolate flavor without extra sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweeten your cookies with granulated sugar, balancing the bitterness of cocoa.
- Butter: Room temperature butter adds richness and helps achieve that tender crumb.
- Hazelnuts: Toasted hazelnuts give a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly.
- Eggs: Use large eggs for moisture and binding; they help your cookies rise beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances all the flavors and adds depth to your cookie dough.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper so your cookies won’t stick like last year’s fruitcake.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This dry mixture is like the party before all the fun begins.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step requires some elbow grease—think of it as your mini workout for the day!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in one egg at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, followed by vanilla extract. It will smell heavenly—like chocolate dreams coming true.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; you want to avoid over-mixing and end up with tough cookies. Nobody wants that!
Step 6: Fold in Hazelnuts
Gently fold in chopped toasted hazelnuts until evenly distributed throughout your dough. At this point, you can taste-test—you know, for quality control.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Scoop tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, shaping them into logs about three inches long. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until set but still soft in the center.
Transfer to plates and let cool before indulging in these festive delights! Enjoy them with hot cocoa or gift them wrapped up pretty—they’re sure to spread joy this holiday season!
You Must Know
- These delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies are not just a treat; they transform your holiday baking into an adventure.
- Customize them easily, and watch them become the star of your festive gatherings.
- Their rich flavor and beautiful presentation will impress everyone at the table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your dry ingredients and chocolate hazelnut spread separately to ensure even distribution. Once combined, shape the dough into logs before chilling it. This sequence guarantees that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect chewy center.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in almond flour for a nutty twist or add a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth. You can also mix in dried cranberries or white chocolate chips for a festive touch that screams holiday cheer.
Storing & Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds; they’ll taste freshly baked again!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best texture, chill your dough thoroughly before slicing.
- This prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Always use high-quality chocolate hazelnut spread for maximum flavor impact.
- Don’t skip the parchment paper—it saves cleanup time!
Sharing my first batch of Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies at a family gathering was unforgettable; their delighted faces made all the effort worth it! shortbread cookies for Christmas.
FAQs:
What are Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies?
Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies are festive treats that blend rich chocolate flavor with the nutty essence of hazelnuts. These cookies are shaped like logs, giving them a unique and appealing presentation for holiday gatherings. They are often decorated to resemble a yule log, making them perfect for Christmas celebrations. Using high-quality chocolate and fresh hazelnuts enhances the taste, creating a delightful combination that everyone will love during the holiday season.
How do I store Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies?
To keep your Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will prevent them from becoming stale while maintaining their delicious flavor and texture. If you want to prolong their shelf life, consider refrigerating them for up to two weeks. delicious chocolate butter cookies For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Can I substitute ingredients in the Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies?
Yes, you can substitute some ingredients in Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions. For instance, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also experiment with different nuts or use almond flour for a distinct flavor. However, remember that any substitutions may alter the texture and taste slightly, so adjust accordingly.
Are Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies suitable for gifting?
Absolutely! Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies make wonderful gifts during the holiday season. Their unique log shape and rich flavors add a special touch that recipients will appreciate. You can package them beautifully in decorative boxes or tins and include a personal note. Homemade cookies always convey thoughtfulness, making these treats an ideal choice for friends, family, or coworkers during festive occasions.
Conclusion for Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies:
In summary, Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies offer a delightful and festive treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. Their unique log shape makes them visually appealing while combining rich chocolate and hazelnut flavors creates an unforgettable taste experience. chocolate cranberry cake Storing these cookies properly ensures they remain fresh for sharing with loved ones or gifting during celebrations. Enjoy baking this festive recipe as part of your holiday traditions!
Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies
Chocolate Hazelnut Christmas Log Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that perfectly blends rich chocolate with the crunchy goodness of toasted hazelnuts. Their unique log shape adds a festive flair, making them ideal for gatherings or as heartfelt gifts. With each bite, you’ll experience a warm, nostalgic flavor that evokes cherished baking memories. These cookies are easy to make and will fill your home with a heavenly aroma that captures the essence of the holiday season.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt.
- In another bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in chopped hazelnuts.
- Shape tablespoonfuls of dough into logs about three inches long and place on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until set but soft in the center. Let cool before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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