
I want to share my go-to sweet treat - these amazing Hazelnut Caramel Chocolate Cookies! Everyone who tries them is stunned by how the gooey caramel, crunchy hazelnuts and rich chocolate cookie work together. They look like something from a high-end bakery, but I'll walk you through how simple they are to whip up at home.
The Ultimate Cookie Trio
These cookies bring together three fantastic flavors - toasted hazelnuts, buttery caramel, and intense chocolate. It's a combo straight from European dessert tradition that's absolutely perfect. You get a soft, chewy cookie base with crunchy nut pieces and that wonderful caramel center that makes them extra special.
Your Ingredients List
- For the Magic: - Your go-to caramel sauce - Chopped toasted hazelnuts - Decadent chocolate ganache for the top
- For the Cookie Base: - Regular flour for the foundation - Good quality cocoa powder - A smidge of baking powder and salt - Butter at room temp - Sugar for sweetening - A fresh egg - Real vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Creation
- Add the Finishing Touches:
- When they're cool, add caramel filling and chocolate drizzle.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Pop them in the oven for about 10-12 minutes until just set.
- Shape with Love:
- Form into balls, roll in hazelnuts, and press a small well in each.
- Bring It Together:
- Mix in your dry ingredients slowly until you've got a soft dough.
- Make It Creamy:
- Cream your butter and sugar until light, then mix in the egg and vanilla.
- Mix the Dry Stuff:
- Combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt in a bowl.
- Get Started:
- Turn your oven to 350°F and get your baking sheet ready with parchment.
My Secret Tricks
Don't skimp on the cocoa powder, it's what gives these cookies their wow factor. Handle the dough gently for the softest texture. Cooling the dough in the fridge for a bit helps them hold their shape while baking.
What To Serve With
These go wonderfully with a cup of coffee or some hot chocolate. Try them slightly warm when the caramel gets all melty. They're also great for gift giving - everyone always wants to know how to make them.

Storage Smarts
Pop them in an airtight container and they'll taste great for about 5 days. You can stick them in the freezer for up to a month too, just let them come to room temp before eating.
Common Questions
Can you switch the nuts? Totally, try pecans or almonds. Need a gluten-free version? Just use your favorite gluten-free flour mix instead. Are your cookies spreading too much? Chill the dough for a bit before you bake them.
Recipe FAQs
- → Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Check that your butter isn't too mushy. Try chilling the dough and avoid flattening them before baking.
- → How can I keep caramel soft?
Let the cookies cool fully before adding caramel. Use softer caramel sauce instead of something hard.
- → Can I swap the nuts for another type?
Sure, walnuts or almonds can work great! Toasting them will make their flavor pop.
- → Why did my ganache clump up?
Keep an eye on the temperatures of both cream and chocolate. Avoid letting any water sneak into the mix.
- → Can these be prepped ahead?
Of course! Just wait to add the caramel and ganache right before serving.