Hazelnut cookies

Hazelnut cookies – an irresistible treat, perfect for any occasion

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 20 cookies

I propose a simple and quick recipe for hazelnut cookies that combines a crunchy texture with the enticing flavors of citrus and roasted nuts. These cookies are ideal for a sweet snack alongside a cup of tea or coffee, and can be given as a gift to loved ones.

Ingredients:
- 150 g butter (at room temperature)
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- Zest of one lemon (for an extra touch of freshness)
- 200 g flour
- 100 g hazelnuts (finely ground)
- A pinch of salt (to enhance the flavors)

Step 1: Preparing the baking tray
Start by preparing the baking tray. Place a sheet of parchment paper on the bottom of the tray, so your cookies do not stick and are easy to remove after baking. You can use a standard tray of about 30x40 cm.

Step 2: Butter cream
In a large bowl, place the butter at room temperature and add the granulated sugar along with the vanilla sugar. Using an electric mixer or a spatula, beat the butter with the sugar until you achieve a creamy and fluffy mixture. This step is essential for getting airy and delicious cookies.

Step 3: Flavoring
Add the lemon zest to the butter and sugar mixture. The fresh lemon aroma will provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of your cookies. Mix well to incorporate the flavor.

Step 4: Dry ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour, ground nuts, and salt. This mixture will add not only flavor but also texture to the cookies. Sifting the flour is a technique that helps eliminate any lumps and ensures an even distribution of ingredients.

Step 5: Combining ingredients
Add the dry ingredients mixture into the butter cream, gently mixing with a spatula. It is important not to overmix, as the cookies may become tough. When the ingredients are well incorporated, you should obtain a soft and easy-to-shape dough.

Step 6: Shaping the cookies
Using a spoon or wet hands, form dough balls the size of a walnut and place them on the prepared tray, leaving space between them to allow for expansion during baking. You can gently flatten the cookies with the bottom of a glass for a more uniform shape.

Step 7: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden at the edges. Check them at 15 minutes to ensure they do not burn. Allow them to cool on a rack before serving.

Serving suggestion:
These hazelnut cookies are delicious both plain and glazed with melted chocolate or dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant look. You can also add a splash of rum essence or a teaspoon of cocoa to the dough to vary the flavors.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, you can replace the hazelnuts with ground peanuts or almonds. You can also add raisins or chocolate chips for an even more interesting texture.

These hazelnut cookies are a quick and simple dessert, perfect for enjoying in the company of loved ones or simply to treat yourself after a long day. Try this recipe and enjoy a sweet moment that will bring smiles!

 Ingredients: Ingredients - dough: - 160 g butter - 60 g powdered sugar - 1 pack of vanilla sugar - zest of 1 lemon - 1 egg - 160 g flour - 120 g ground hazelnuts (they are better if roasted before grinding) Filling: - 1 jar of strawberry jam