Star Cookies with Nuts

Cookies with Hazelnuts and Delicious Glaze

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rest time: 3-4 hours
Baking time: 10-20 minutes
Total: Approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 30 cookies

Introduction

Hazelnut cookies with glaze are a dessert that combines the flavor of chocolate with the crunchy texture of hazelnuts, making them perfect for any occasion. This type of cookie is not only delicious but also easy to make, using a mix of accessible ingredients. The origin of these cookies dates back to the pastry traditions of many cultures, where sweets were often prepared to bring joy and feasting during celebrations.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 110 g powdered sugar
- 1 sachet vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee
- 60 g milk chocolate
- 220 g ground hazelnuts (or finely ground)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- Flour for rolling out the dough

For the glaze:
- 50 g powdered sugar
- 1 egg white

Preparation

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, mix the egg with the yolk, powdered sugar, vanilla sugar, salt, and instant coffee. Use an electric mixer to combine the ingredients until you get a light and fluffy foam. This is the moment when air is incorporated, which will make the cookies fluffier.

2. Melting the chocolate:
In a small saucepan, melt the milk chocolate in a double boiler. Make sure no water gets into the chocolate, as this can cause an unpleasant texture. Once melted, let it cool slightly before adding it to the egg mixture.

3. Combining the ingredients:
Add the melted chocolate to the egg mixture, then fold in the ground hazelnuts and baking powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. This is when the flavors begin to combine, and the dough becomes a true feast of flavors.

4. Resting the dough:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough chill for 3-4 hours. This step is essential to allow the dough to firm up, making it easier to roll out and cut.

5. Rolling out the dough:
After the dough has chilled, sprinkle some flour on the work surface and roll out the dough with a rolling pin until it reaches a thickness of about 5 mm. Make sure to use enough flour to prevent sticking.

6. Cutting shapes:
Use cookie cutters to cut various shapes from the dough. You can opt for stars, hearts, or any other shape you prefer. Place the cut cookies on a tray lined with parchment paper.

7. Preparing the glaze:
In a clean bowl, beat the egg white until frothy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to mix until you obtain a smooth and glossy glaze. This will add a sweet and decorative touch to your cookies.

8. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Brush each cookie shape with glaze using a pastry brush, then place the tray in the oven. Bake the cookies for 10-20 minutes, watching closely not to burn them. They are ready when they become slightly golden on the bottom and appear soft on top.

9. Cooling:
After removing them from the oven, let the cookies cool on a wire rack. This step is essential to help them maintain their crunchy texture.

Serving and suggestions

These hazelnut cookies are excellent alongside a cup of coffee or tea. You can serve them at a party or simply as a personal treat. A creative idea is to beautifully package them and give them as a gift, adding a personal touch with a handwritten label.

Variations and tips

- You can replace hazelnuts with walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios to diversify the flavor.
- Add dark chocolate or white chocolate pieces for an even more intense taste.
- For an exotic note, you can add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.

Nutritional benefits

These cookies are a good source of healthy fats from hazelnuts, which contain protein and fiber. Additionally, chocolate brings antioxidants, benefiting heart health. However, it is important to consume them in moderation, as sugar and calories can add up quickly.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of sweetener?
Yes, you can use alternative sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind that the texture and taste may change.

2. How can I tell when they are baked?
The cookies are done when the edges are slightly golden, but the center is still soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Of course! These cookies freeze very well. Make sure to place them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

Hazelnut cookies with glaze are a wonderful choice for any sweet lover. With each bite, you will discover a perfect combination of textures and flavors, and the preparation process becomes a pleasure. Try this simple and delicious recipe and let yourself be carried away by the magic of cooking!

 Ingredients: Dough: 1 egg + 1 yolk 110 g powdered sugar 1 sachet of vanilla sugar 1 tsp of instant coffee 60 g milk chocolate 220 g finely ground hazelnuts 1/4 tsp baking powder a pinch of salt Glaze: 50 g powdered sugar 1 egg white Other ingredients: flour for rolling out the dough

 Tags:  starry dessert with nuts cookies eggs chocolate hazelnuts