As the crisp air of fall dances through my kitchen, I can’t help but think of the delightful warmth that fills the space when baking. The sound of hazelnuts crackling as they roast and the intoxicating aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air signal it’s time to whip up a batch of Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies. This recipe is a joyful blend of nutty flavors and cozy spices, creating a perfectly balanced treat that makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
There’s something special about these cookies that transforms ordinary moments into mini celebrations. With a lovely crunch on the outside and a tender, chewy center, they pair effortlessly with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re celebrating holiday festivities or simply indulging after a long day, these cookies are guaranteed to please your palate and impress your guests. Let’s dive into the delightful world of baking and make these sweet treasures together!
Why are Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies a must-make?
Decadent Flavor: The rich combination of honey and spices creates a flavor explosion in every bite, making these cookies a delightful treat.
Perfect for Sharing: Their inviting aroma and elegant appearance make them ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can master this recipe.
Customizable: Feel free to substitute hazelnuts with your favorite nuts, making each batch uniquely yours.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: At only 108 calories per cookie, they’re a divine little treat to savor without too much regret!
Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter (12 tbsp / 1.5 sticks) – Provides richness and moisture. Note: Always use room temperature for easier mixing.
- Brown Sugar (1/2 cup) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. Substitution: Light brown sugar can be swapped for dark if a stronger molasses flavor is desired.
- Honey (2 tbsp) – Contributes natural sweetness and moisture. Note: Local honey can enhance flavor variations.
- Ground Cinnamon (1.5 tsp) – Offers warm spice flavor. Substitution: Other warm spices like nutmeg could be added for variety.
- Ground Ginger (1 tsp) – Provides a zesty, spicy note. Note: Fresh ginger can be used as a substitute for more intense flavor.
- Ground Allspice (1/2 tsp) – Adds complexity with flavors reminiscent of autumn. Note: Mixed spice blends can also work.
- Ground Cloves (1/2 tsp) – Imparts a strong, aromatic flavor. Note: Use sparingly as it can easily overpower other flavors.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups plus extra for rolling) – Forms the structure of cookies. Substitution: Can be replaced with gluten-free flour blend for gluten sensitivity.
- Finely Chopped Hazelnuts (2/3 cup) – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor. Prep Note: Use whole raw hazelnuts; to roast, microwave for 2 minutes.
- Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances overall flavor. Note: Can be omitted if using salted butter.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar (1.5 cups) – For glaze sweetness. Substitution: Can be thinned with milk for a non-alcoholic glaze.
- Hazelnut Liqueur (for thinning glaze, e.g., Frangelico) – Adds flavor and smoothness to the glaze. Substitution: Omit for a non-alcoholic version; use water or milk instead.
How to Make Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies
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Prepare Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to create that inviting aroma while baking your cookies to golden perfection.
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Mix Dough: In a large mixing bowl or your stand mixer, beat together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, honey, and spices until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This will create a rich and creamy base!
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Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, chopped hazelnuts, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix gently until a dough forms—be careful not to over-mix for the best texture.
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Roll & Cut: Dust your work surface with flour and roll out the dough to about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Use a 2.5-inch round cutter to cut out cookies, ensuring they’re all uniform for even baking.
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Bake: Place your cut cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for about 10 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
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Cool: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This cooling period allows them to firm up nicely while retaining their chewy centers.
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Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and hazelnut liqueur until it reaches a pourable consistency. This glaze will add a delightful sweetness to your cookies.
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Glaze Cookies: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies, allowing it to set before stacking them up on your serving plate. Enjoy the sweet finish on each cookie!
Optional: Sprinkle some extra chopped hazelnuts on top of the glaze for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful cookies to suit your taste!
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Flour Swap: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy!
Baking is all about inclusivity, and this simple swap lets those with gluten sensitivities join in on the cookie festivities. -
Nut Alternatives: Use pecans or almonds in place of hazelnuts for a unique twist.
This variation not only changes the flavor profile but also adds a different texture, making each bite an exciting surprise. -
Spice It Up: Experiment with adding nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
These spices can add an unexpected but delicious depth that keeps your taste buds dancing with joy! -
Sweet Additions: Fold in some chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or raisins for a delightful burst of sweetness.
These additions can elevate the cookie experience, making each morsel even more indulgent and satisfying. -
Glaze Options: Substitute hazelnut liqueur with vanilla extract for the glaze for a family-friendly version.
This adaptation retains that sweet, succulent finish, ensuring each cookie is still a treat worth savoring. -
Citrus Zest: Add some orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright, zesty contrast.
The zesty notes create a refreshing balance with the warm spices, perfect for brightening those cozy fall days. -
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for a sweet-and-spicy kick.
This unexpected twist turns your cookies into a flavor adventure and makes them stand out at any gathering. -
Oats for Texture: Incorporate rolled oats into the dough for a chewier texture.
This variation gives the cookies a heartier bite, making them even more satisfying and rustic!
What to Serve with Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies?
Picture a cozy gathering, sweet laughter filling the air, and the tempting scent of freshly baked cookies inviting everyone to indulge.
- Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, velvety texture of hot chocolate complements the nutty flavors of the cookies, creating a comforting pairing.
- Cold Brew Coffee: A smooth, slightly acidic cold brew balances the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite a delightful experience.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai harmonize beautifully with your cookie’s own spice medley, enhancing the whole experience.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini, creamy cheesecake bites add a layer of decadence and contrasting texture that feels oh-so-indulgent when paired with the crunchy cookies.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzle some homemade caramel sauce over the cookies for an extra sweet touch that enhances their rich flavor.
- Maple Glazed Nuts: Pairing these cookies with roasted maple-glazed nuts can provide an irresistible crunch and a nutty contrast that echoes the hazelnut flavor.
- Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider brings the flavors of fall to your table, complementing the cookies perfectly and warming your heart.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Enjoying a cookie with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast, marrying warmth and coolness in every bite.
With these delicious accompaniments, your Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies are sure to shine at every gathering!
Expert Tips for Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies
- Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for easier mixing, resulting in a smooth, creamy dough.
- Avoid Over-Mixing: When incorporating flour, mix just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired tender texture.
- Gluten-Free Alternatives: If you need a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to allow everyone to enjoy these Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies.
- Perfect Glaze Consistency: If your glaze is too thick, add a few drops of milk or water to reach the perfect pourable consistency for drizzling over cookies.
- Cooling Time is Crucial: Allow cookies to cool completely before adding glaze to prevent it from melting and to keep cookies firm for stacking.
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and rolling the dough into balls before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. This not only enhances the flavors but also allows for quicker baking when you’re ready. You can also glaze the cookies up to 3 days ahead; simply allow the glazed cookies to sit at room temperature to set before storing them in an airtight container. When ready to serve, just warm them briefly in the oven for that freshly-baked taste!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies
Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, ensuring they stay fresh and chewy.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Glaze Storage: If you have leftover glaze, store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week; re-whisk before using on your Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies.
Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of hazelnuts should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using whole raw hazelnuts for the best flavor and crunch. If you prefer a roasted taste, simply microwave them for about 2 minutes until fragrant, or roast them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
How should I store these cookies?
You can store your Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Just make sure it’s sealed well to keep them fresh and chewy. If you want to make them last longer, freeze them! Simply place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They can stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can! To freeze the dough, form it into a log shape and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, slice it, and proceed with rolling and cutting your cookies. Frozen dough can be stored for up to 3 months.
What should I do if my cookies are too hard?
Very! If your cookies turn out too hard, it may be due to over-baking. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes in the oven; they should be lightly golden on the edges and soft in the center. If this happens, you can always try placing them in an airtight container with a slice of bread overnight to help soften them and restore some moisture.
Are these cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, you can make these Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Many blends work well for a one-to-one swap! Just be sure to check the ingredients to ensure there are no allergens present if baking for someone with a specific dietary need.
Can I use a different nut instead of hazelnuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds or pecans. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture, making the cookies just as delightful. Just chop them finely before mixing them into your dough to ensure even distribution!
Honey Spice Hazelnut Cookies for Cozy Fall Baking Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl or your stand mixer, beat together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, honey, and spices until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, chopped hazelnuts, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix gently until a dough forms.
- Dust your work surface with flour and roll out the dough to about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Cut out cookies using a 2.5-inch round cutter.
- Place your cut cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for about 10 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and hazelnut liqueur until it reaches a pourable consistency.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and allow it to set before serving.