Hazelnut Cookies
Delicious hazelnut cookies with a hint of orange and vanilla, featuring crunchy toasted hazelnuts and sweet dates—perfect for nut lovers and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, baking powder, and a dash of salt; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat margarine with electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds.
- Add sugar; beat until fluffy.
- Add egg, orange or lemon peel, and vanilla; beat well.
- Stir in orange juice, then gradually add flour mixture, ground hazelnuts, and chopped dates; mix until combined.
- Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of dough onto a greased cookie sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- If desired, place a whole toasted hazelnut on top of each cookie.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool.
- Serve and enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute half of it with a sugar alternative. Ground almonds can also replace hazelnuts if needed. Make sure to toast the hazelnuts for an enhanced taste. Keep an eye on the cookies while baking, as oven temperatures can vary.
Serving Suggestions
These hazelnut cookies pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon snack. For added flair, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They also complement well with fresh fruit or a light dessert like Strawberry Bavarian Dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about five minutes to restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hazelnut Cookies contains roughly 134 calories, with 2g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 12g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground hazelnuts with other nuts like almonds or walnuts. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may vary slightly. Make sure the nuts are finely ground to maintain the right consistency in the cookies.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
To make these cookies vegan, replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Use a plant-based margarine instead of butter and ensure that the sugar is vegan-friendly.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle. Alternatively, you can add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).