Hazelnut Shortbread
Hazelnut shortbread offers buttery, crumbly textures infused with toasted hazelnuts, topped with rich melted chocolate—perfect for sophisticated treats or afternoon tea gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Stir together flour, confectioners sugar, salt, and ground hazelnuts in a medium-size bowl.
- Cut the butter into the flour mixture with a pastry blender until well combined.
- Knead the mixture until it holds together when pressed.
- Divide the dough in half.
- Place each half on an ungreased baking sheet and pat into a 9-inch circle; crimp edges.
- Cut each circle into 12 equal wedges without separating them.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and drizzle melted semi-sweet chocolate over hot shortbread, if desired.
- Let cool for 10 minutes.
- Re-cut the wedges to separate them.
- Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of confectioners sugar. If you don't have hazelnuts, walnuts or almonds can be substituted, although they will alter the flavor slightly. To ensure even baking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time. If the dough feels too crumbly, a teaspoon of cold water can help bind it without altering the texture.
Serving Suggestions
These hazelnut shortbread cookies are delightful on their own but can also be paired with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For a special occasion, serve them alongside a cheese platter or as part of a dessert table featuring Nana'S Cutout Cookies. Drizzling with caramel or adding a sprinkle of sea salt can elevate the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the wedges in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hazelnut Shortbread contains roughly 217 calories, with 3g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value).
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 add flavors like vanilla or almond extract?
Absolutely! Adding a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to the butter mixture can enhance the flavor profile of your shortbread. Adjust the amount based on your preference, but keep in mind that a little goes a long way.
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).