Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies make a delicious and hearty cookie. In fact, these cookies are phenomenal!
This is an easy-to-make cookie that looks inviting on a holiday buffet table. Also perfect to serve as a little dessert alongside a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. Our family includes them every year at Christmas time on our cookie menu.
The crisp shortbread has a touch of maple flavor that pairs well with the warm flavor of the hazelnuts. If you are not fond of hazelnuts, you can substitute your favorite nut in this recipe and make it just how you like it.
This cookies recipe was developed by Darla Sawnson, pasty chef at Atwater’s, a popular Portland, Oregon restaurant. Darla, the pasty chef, likes to “half dip” the hazelnut shortbread cookies in bittersweet chocolate and sprinkle finely chopped hazelnuts on the chocolate before it sets.
More favorite Cookie Recipes and Secrets To Making Perfect Cookies. Also learn How To Have A Successful Holiday Cookie Exchange or Cookie Swap.
-
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
-
In a large bowl, lightly beat butter; add sugar and beat thoroughly.
-
In a small bowl, whisk maple syrup and vanilla extract together; add to butter mixture, scraping down sides of bowl. Mix in flour just until blended; add hazelnuts.
-
With a sharp knife, cut dough into 1/4-in slices and place 2-inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. If you desire, roll dough out on a lightly floured board and use cookie cutters to cut desires shapes.
-
Bake for approximately 12 to 15 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from oven and let cool on wire racks. Place cookies on ungreased cookie sheets.
-
While the shortbread cools melt the chocolate and butter or shortening in a stainless steel bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir until chocolate is smooth and completely melted. Remove from heat.
-
Dip one side of the cookie into the chocolate; place back on cookie sheet to harden. Store in airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week.
-
Variation: For a delectable option, change butter measurement to 3/4 cup and add 1/4 cup Oregon hazelnut butter. This decreases the amount of saturated fat in the recipe and increases the wonderful flavor of hazelnuts.
* To roast hazelnuts: Spread shelled nuts in a shallow pan and roast in a 275 degree F. oven for approximately 20 to 30 minutes or until skins crack. Remove from heat. Remove skins by rubbing warm hazelnuts in a towel. Coarsely chop hazelnuts (do not put in food processor); set aside.
Categories:
Chocolate Recipes Christmas Cookies Dessert Recipes Pacific Northwest Rolled Cookies & Cut Out Cookies Tea Cookies