There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. It evokes a sense of warmth, comfort, and pure happiness. And when it comes to cookies that truly tantalize the taste buds, hazelnut butter cookies reign supreme.
These delicate treats, with their nutty aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture, are simply irresistible. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your baking journey, this recipe will guide you every step of the way to create a batch of heavenly hazelnut butter cookies that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To embark on this delightful baking adventure, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup creamy hazelnut butter (choose a brand with a smooth, spreadable consistency)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts, for topping (optional, but highly recommended!)
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Hazelnut Butter: If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute almond butter or cashew butter for hazelnut butter. However, keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile of the cookies.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Tools of the Trade
Before we dive into the baking process, ensure you have the following tools on hand:
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Wire rack
Let’s Get Baking!
Now that we have our ingredients and tools ready, let’s create some baking magic:
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Incorporate the Hazelnut Butter and Egg
Add the creamy hazelnut butter to the butter-sugar mixture and mix well until fully combined. Then, crack in the egg and add the vanilla extract. Mix again until everything is nicely incorporated.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, resulting in cookies with a perfect texture.
Step 4: Gradual Incorporation
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing the dough, as it can lead to tough cookies.
