Recipe: Chocolate Cookies with Hazelnuts and Coconut

Recipe: Chocolate Cookies with Hazelnuts and Coconut

Chocolate cookies with hazelnuts and coconut are a decadent treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate with the nutty crunch of hazelnuts and the tropical flavor of coconut. These cookies are a wonderful combination of flavors and textures, making them perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy afternoon with tea or a festive gathering with friends and family. If you're a fan of chocolate and nuts, this recipe will surely become a favorite.

In this detailed guide, we'll walk you through the process of making these mouthwatering cookies step by step. From mixing the ingredients to baking them to perfection, let's get started!

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts (roasted)
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, based on preference)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.

2. Toast the Hazelnuts (Optional)
   If you haven’t already used roasted hazelnuts, you can toast them to bring out their flavor. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 8-10 minutes until they are lightly golden. Let them cool and chop them into smaller pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. Combine the Flour, Cocoa, and Baking Soda
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients will give the cookies their structure and chocolate flavor.

2. Set Aside
   Once combined, set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

1. Beat the Butter and Sugars
   In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using an electric mixer. Start on a low speed and gradually increase to medium-high. Continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

2. Add the Eggs and Vanilla
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla will complement the rich chocolate flavor of the cookies.

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Add the Dry Ingredients to the Wet Ingredients
   Gradually add the dry flour-cocoa mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on a low speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined. You should end up with a thick cookie dough.

2. Fold in the Chocolate Chips, Hazelnuts, and Coconut
   Using a spatula, fold in the chocolate chips, chopped hazelnuts, and shredded coconut. Make sure the nuts and coconut are evenly distributed throughout the dough. These add texture and flavor to the cookies.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

1. Scoop the Dough
   Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough. Roll the dough into balls (about 1 tablespoon of dough each) and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Space the cookies about 2 inches apart as they will spread a little during baking.

2. Flatten the Dough
   Gently press down each dough ball with your fingers or the back of a spoon to slightly flatten them. This will help them bake evenly and create a uniform shape.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake the Cookies
   Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. The cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven, so avoid overbaking them.

2. Cool on a Wire Rack
   Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the cookies to firm up and maintain their chewy texture.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve
   Once the cookies are completely cooled, serve them with a glass of milk, a cup of tea, or enjoy them as a sweet treat on their own. The combination of chocolate, hazelnuts, and coconut creates a truly indulgent experience.

Tips and Variations

1. Add More Nuts: If you love nuts, feel free to add more hazelnuts or experiment with other types like almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
2. Make it Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
3. Dairy-Free Option: If you need a dairy-free option, use dairy-free chocolate chips and substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
4. Chill the Dough: If you have the time, chill the cookie dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the dough firm up and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Health Benefits

1. Hazelnuts: Hazelnuts are rich in healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They are known to support heart health and improve brain function.
2. Coconut: Coconut adds a tropical flavor and is a good source of healthy fats and fiber. It can help with digestion and provide a natural energy boost.
3. Chocolate: Dark chocolate, especially when used in moderation, is packed with antioxidants and has been shown to improve heart health and boost mood.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, place them in the fridge. You can also freeze the dough before baking it. Simply scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and transfer the frozen dough balls to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Chocolate cookies with hazelnuts and coconut are a rich and indulgent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth. These cookies are easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. The combination of smooth chocolate, crunchy hazelnuts, and the tropical flavor of coconut creates a unique and irresistible taste. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just enjoying a cozy snack at home, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious flavors of chocolate, hazelnuts, and coconut!