Lemon and hazelnut cookies

Lemon and Hazelnut Cookies: A Sweet Treat That Will Delight Your Senses

Who doesn't love the fresh and crunchy flavors of lemon and hazelnut cookies? These little delights are perfect for serving at a festive table, in the company of loved ones, or simply when you want to indulge your taste buds. In this recipe, I will show you how to prepare delicious cookies that perfectly combine the acidity of lemon with the crunchy texture of hazelnuts, bringing a smile to anyone who enjoys them.

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

Ingredients

- 300 g flour
- 250 g butter (at room temperature)
- 150 g brown sugar (powdered)
- 1 packet of powdered vanilla (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- Zest of 1 lemon (freshly grated)
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 100 g hazelnuts (roasted and lightly ground)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (activated with a few drops of lemon)
- A pinch of salt

Step by step to achieve perfectly crunchy cookies

Step 1: Prepare the dough
In a large bowl, combine the softened butter with the powdered brown sugar. Use a mixer or a spatula to mix well until you achieve a creamy and homogeneous mixture. Add the vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice, continuing to mix to integrate the flavors.

Step 2: Add the dry ingredients
Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into another bowl. This step is essential to avoid lumps in the dough. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, gently mixing with a spatula or your hands until everything is well incorporated. Finally, add the ground hazelnuts and mix again.

Step 3: Chill the dough
Form a ball from the dough and wrap it in plastic wrap. Let the dough rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is important to allow the butter to firm up, which will give the cookies a better texture when baked.

Step 4: Shape the cookies
After the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and divide it into two equal pieces. On a lightly floured work surface, roll each piece of dough into a log about 3 cm in diameter. Roll them evenly so they bake uniformly.

Step 5: Cutting and shaping
Using a sharp knife, cut the logs into slices about 1.5 cm thick. Place each slice on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. You can gently shape them by hand to give them a nicer appearance. In the center of each slice, place a whole hazelnut for an extra touch of appearance and flavor.

Step 6: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes or until the edges become slightly golden. Be careful not to leave them too long, as they can dry out. Once baked, let them cool on a rack to maintain their crunchy texture.

Serving suggestions and delicious combinations

These lemon and hazelnut cookies are excellent alongside a cup of hot tea or a fragrant espresso. Due to their fresh flavors, they are also perfect to be enjoyed alongside vanilla ice cream or a lemon sorbet, which will perfectly complement the sweetness of the cookies.

Helpful tips and variations

- Vegan option: You can replace the butter with a plant-based butter and the sugar with a natural sweetener if you want a healthier version.
- Creative additions: Instead of hazelnuts, you can use walnuts, almonds, or even chopped chocolate to give your cookies a different note.
- Storing the cookies: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week without losing their freshness.

Nutritional information

Each cookie contains approximately 100 calories, and the ingredients used offer a variety of nutritional benefits. Butter is a source of healthy fats, while hazelnuts provide protein and fiber. Lemon not only enhances the flavor but also provides a boost of vitamin C, essential for the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version.

Is it possible to freeze the cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies can be frozen before baking. Wrap the logs of dough in plastic wrap and keep them in the freezer. When you're ready to bake them, just let them thaw a bit and slice them.

In conclusion, lemon and hazelnut cookies are not only easy to make but also a true delight for any sweet lover. Whether you serve them at a gathering with friends or indulge in them at home, I am sure they will bring a touch of joy in every bite. Don't hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones and give them the chance to enjoy these aromatic treats!