Cookies with nuts

Hazelnut Cookies: A Flavorful Delight for Special Moments

Hazelnut cookies are a simple yet incredibly delicious dessert that combines the nutritional flavors of roasted hazelnuts with the sweetness of sugar and a hint of warm spices. These cookies are not just a culinary delight but also a joy to share during festive moments or when you simply crave something sweet.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 30 cookies

Ingredients:
- 500 g roasted hazelnuts (unsalted and shelled)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 250 g sugar
- Spices: half a teaspoon of nutmeg, one teaspoon of cinnamon, a pinch of ground cloves
- Powdered sugar for sprinkling

To achieve the best results, make sure the hazelnuts are of high quality. Choose roasted hazelnuts, but not salted, to avoid an unpleasant contrast. These cookies are a perfect choice for nut lovers and can be an interesting alternative to classic butter cookies.

The Story of Hazelnut Cookies
The origins of these cookies are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed that hazelnut desserts have been appreciated throughout history for their nutritional properties and rich flavor. Hazelnuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making these cookies not only a culinary pleasure but also a healthier choice compared to other sweets.

Making Hazelnut Cookies
1. Grinding the Hazelnuts: Start by grinding the roasted hazelnuts until you get a fine powder. Use a food processor to do this quickly and efficiently. Be careful not to turn them into hazelnut butter, so pulse in short bursts.

2. Beating the Eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and yolks with an electric mixer at medium speed until the mixture becomes a whitish cream. This step is essential to incorporate air, which will make the cookies fluffy and easy to chew.

3. Adding the Sugar: Continue mixing by gradually adding the sugar. Beat well until everything is homogenized and the mixture becomes creamy.

4. Integrating the Dry Ingredients: Add the ground hazelnuts and spices (nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves). Use a spatula to gently fold in so that the ingredients combine without losing the air in the mixture.

5. Shaping the Cookies: Prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Using a teaspoon, form small balls of the mixture and place them on the tray, leaving enough space between them as they will spread slightly during baking.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 160 °C. Bake the cookies for about 15 minutes, or until they become slightly golden at the edges. Check them from time to time, as each oven bakes differently. The cookies should be dry on the outside but soft on the inside.

7. Cooling and Decorating: Once you take them out of the oven, let them cool on a rack. Once cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look and an extra touch of sweetness.

8. Storing: I recommend keeping the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can be enjoyed for a few days, but they might not last that long!

Chocolate Version
For an even more decadent treat, you can melt dark chocolate and dip each cookie in chocolate, then let them sit on a rack to harden. This will add a crunchy texture and an intense chocolate flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I replace hazelnuts with other nuts? Yes, you can use almonds or pecans, but the taste will vary.
- How can I make the cookies without eggs? You can use an egg substitute based on banana or apple puree, but the result will be different.
- What drinks pair well with these cookies? Black coffee or a flavored tea are ideal to balance the sweetness of the cookies.

Nutritional Benefits
Hazelnut cookies are rich in proteins and healthy fats, making them an excellent source of energy. Hazelnuts contain antioxidants and vitamins, thus contributing to a healthy lifestyle.

These hazelnut cookies are not only easy to make but also a perfect treat for any special occasion. Whether you prepare them for a party or simply to indulge yourself, the result will always be equally delicious! Don't forget to share them with loved ones, as goodness multiplies when savored in good company.