The holiday season brings a special kind of magic, and nothing embodies that spirit quite like a batch of fresh Christmas cookies. These delightful treats are perfect for sharing with family and friends, or enjoying by the cozy glow of the fireplace. Imagine soft, chocolatey bites with crunchy hazelnuts hidden inside, all drizzled in a rich chocolate glaze. You won’t just be baking cookies; you’ll be creating joyful memories that last long after the festive season has passed.
What You’ll Need for Christmas Cookies
Gather these simple ingredients to create the most delicious Christmas cookies:
- 200 g chocolate hazelnut wafers (about 7 oz)
- 3 tablespoons liquid chocolate
- 16 whole hazelnuts
- 20 g butter (about 1.5 tablespoons)
- 100 g milk chocolate (for glazing, about 3.5 oz)
- 20 g butter (for glazing, about 1.5 tablespoons)
- 50 g toasted and chopped hazelnuts (about 1.75 oz)
Step-by-Step Christmas Cookies Recipe
Follow these easy steps to whip up your own batch of Christmas cookies:
- Crush the chocolate hazelnut wafers in a food processor until you get a fine powder.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the wafer powder with the liquid chocolate and melted butter, stirring until you have a sticky mixture.
- Form small balls with the mixture and place a hazelnut in the center of each ball. Shape them back into a ball to seal the hazelnut inside.
- Place the balls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the milk chocolate and butter, stirring until smooth. Then, allow it to cool slightly.
- Remove the chilled balls from the fridge and dip them in the melted chocolate.
- Sprinkle some of the chopped, toasted hazelnuts on top, then dip again in the chocolate glaze for a thicker coating.
- Return the cookies to the fridge for 15-20 minutes to let the glaze set.
How to Serve Christmas Cookies
These cookies are best enjoyed when shared! Arrange them on a festive platter, perhaps alongside a cup of warm cocoa or coffee. You can also pack them in lovely holiday tins as gifts for your neighbors or friends. For a fun touch, place them on a cookie tray and let family members choose their favorites during holiday gatherings!
Expert Tips for Christmas Cookies
- Customize Your Coating: Try using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor. You can also add a pinch of sea salt after glazing for a sweet and salty combination.
- Add Flavor: Consider adding a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for even longer freshness.
Christmas Cookies: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! If you don’t have hazelnuts, feel free to substitute with almonds, walnuts, or your favorite nut.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze very well. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
How can I make these gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free chocolate wafers to easily make these cookies gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Baking Christmas cookies is a fun and delicious way to celebrate the holiday season. Don’t hesitate to try out this recipe and make your own festive memories today!
Christmas Cookies
Delightful chocolate hazelnut cookies perfect for sharing during the holiday season.
Main Ingredients
- 200 g chocolate hazelnut wafers ((about 7 oz))
- 3 tablespoons liquid chocolate
- 16 whole hazelnuts
- 20 g butter ((about 1.5 tablespoons))
- 100 g milk chocolate ((for glazing, about 3.5 oz))
- 20 g butter ((for glazing, about 1.5 tablespoons))
- 50 g toasted and chopped hazelnuts ((about 1.75 oz))
Preparation
- Crush the chocolate hazelnut wafers in a food processor until you get a fine powder.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the wafer powder with the liquid chocolate and melted butter, stirring until you have a sticky mixture.
- Form small balls with the mixture and place a hazelnut in the center of each ball. Shape them back into a ball to seal the hazelnut inside.
- Place the balls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the milk chocolate and butter, stirring until smooth. Then, allow it to cool slightly.
Glazing
- Remove the chilled balls from the fridge and dip them in the melted chocolate.
- Sprinkle some of the chopped, toasted hazelnuts on top, then dip again in the chocolate glaze for a thicker coating.
- Return the cookies to the fridge for 15-20 minutes to let the glaze set.
These cookies are best when shared! Customize the coating with dark chocolate or add a splash of vanilla or almond extract. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer freshness.
