Nutella Thumbprint Cookies: A Delightful Treat

Note

Fun Facts and Figures

• Nutella Origins: Nutella, a beloved hazelnut spread, was created by Pietro Ferrero in 1964 in Italy. It was originally developed as a way to extend the limited supply of chocolate post-World War II by mixing it with hazelnuts, which were abundant in the Piedmont region.
• Popularity: Nutella is now sold in over 160 countries, with a jar reportedly being sold every 2.5 seconds globally. The Ferrero Company produces around 365,000 tons of Nutella annually.
• World Nutella Day: Celebrated on February 5th each year, World Nutella Day was started by an American blogger, Sara Rosso, in 2007. It has since become a global phenomenon, with fans sharing recipes, stories, and photos of their Nutella creations.
• Calories: Each Nutella thumbprint cookie contains approximately 126 kcal, making Nutella thumbprint cookies a relatively guilt-free indulgence when enjoyed in moderation.
• Hazelnut Usage: The Ferrero company is one of the largest consumers of hazelnuts in the world, using about 25% of the global supply to produce Nutella.
  
  

  Substitutes and Variations

  • Flour Alternatives: If you want to make these cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free flour blend.
  • Egg Replacement: For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or a commercial egg replacer.
  • Nutella Substitutes: If you prefer a different flavor, you can use other nut butters like almond butter or peanut butter. For a chocolate-free version, try a fruit jam or caramel spread.
  • Decoration Ideas: Instead of hazelnuts, you can top the cookies with crushed almonds, walnuts, or even colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.

  Additional Notes

  • Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
  • Chilling the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and enhances the flavors.
  • Double Batch: This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled if you're baking for a crowd. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.
  • Nutella Tips: For easier handling, slightly warm the Nutella before using it to fill the cookies. You can do this by microwaving it for a few seconds or placing the jar in warm water.

  Nutella thumbprint cookies are a surefire way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and versatile, allowing for plenty of creative twists. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful cookies.