Chocolate Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Base

01 - 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
02 - 2/3 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
04 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
05 - 1/2 cup cocoa powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Coating & Filling

07 - 1/2 cup hazelnuts, finely chopped
08 - 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
09 - Whole hazelnuts for garnish (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined. The dough should be firm and pliable.
05 - Roll the dough into 1-inch diameter balls. Roll each ball in the finely chopped hazelnuts until coated. Place on prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
06 - Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to press an indentation into the center of each cookie ball.
07 - Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes until set but not hard.
08 - While cookies are still warm, re-press the indentations if needed. Spoon about a teaspoon of chocolate hazelnut spread into each indentation. If desired, press a whole hazelnut into the spread for garnish.
09 - Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

# Notes:

01 - These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.