Healthy No-Butter Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies Recipe

If you love indulging in rich chocolate treats but want something a little lighter and just as delicious, this Healthy No-Butter Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies Recipe is an absolute game changer. These cookies are packed with wholesome ingredients like hazelnut flour and natural sweeteners, delivering a satisfying crunch and deep chocolate flavor without any butter in sight. Whether you’re craving a guilt-free snack or a homemade delight to share with friends, this recipe offers a perfect balance of healthy ingredients and irresistible taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Healthy No-Butter Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients. Each component plays a key role, contributing to the texture, flavor, or nutrition of the cookie. From the nutty base of hazelnut flour to the sweetness of maple syrup, every element is carefully chosen to create a delicious yet wholesome treat.

• 2 cups hazelnut flour: This gives the cookies their rich, nutty flavor and moist texture without any gluten.
• 5 tbsp brown sugar: Adds just the right amount of natural sweetness and a subtle caramel tone.
• 1 big tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides that intense chocolatey taste while keeping the recipe guilt-free.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Essential for giving the cookies a light and tender crumb.
• 2 tbsp maple syrup: A natural sweetener that adds moisture and depth to the flavor.
• ¼ cup + 1 tbsp milk of choice: Whether oat, almond, or another favorite, it binds the dough and keeps it soft.
• ¼ cup blanched roasted hazelnuts (chopped): Adds a delightful crunch and extra hazelnut goodness.
• Handful of dark (vegan) chocolate chips: For melty pockets of chocolate that make every bite heavenly.

How to Make Healthy No-Butter Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures it reaches the perfect temperature to cook your cookies evenly and get that lovely golden crust.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the hazelnut flour, brown sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and baking powder. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening and sweetness evenly throughout the dough.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Next, pour in the maple syrup and the milk of your choice. Stir everything together until the dough comes together. It will be sticky, but that’s exactly how it should feel. Using your hands is the easiest and most satisfying way to combine the dough thoroughly.

Step 4: Fold in the Hazelnuts and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chopped roasted hazelnuts and the chocolate chips. These add bursts of texture and flavor that will make your cookies stand out.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Scoop about a tablespoon of dough at a time using a cookie scoop or spoon. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly with your hands. This part is fun and hands-on, allowing you to connect with your baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the shaped dough on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Once the time’s up, turn off the oven but leave the cookies inside. Flip them over gently after baking if the bottoms still seem soft, then let them sit for another 5 minutes to firm up.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool completely before biting in. This resting time lets the cookies set just right, creating a delightful crisp on the outside while staying tender in the middle.

How to Serve Healthy No-Butter Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling a few extra chopped hazelnuts or a dusting of cocoa powder makes for a pretty presentation and boosts the nutty, chocolatey experience. You might also drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the top for a decadent touch that’s still aligned with the healthy vibe.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or a cold glass of your favorite plant-based milk. They also make a delicious afternoon pick-me-up alongside fresh fruit like raspberries or sliced pears.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this Healthy No-Butter Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies Recipe into charming gift boxes for friends, or serve them stacked with layers of dairy-free whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant dessert. You can even sandwich two cookies with a thin layer of vegan chocolate spread for an irresistible treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This will preserve their chewy texture and prevent the chocolate chips from melting or sticking together.

Freezing

If you want to make these cookies in advance, they freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To enjoy cookies as if freshly baked, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes. This brings back that freshly-baked aroma and soft gooey chocolate goodness that’s utterly irresistible.

FAQs

Can I substitute hazelnut flour with almond flour?

Absolutely! Almond flour works well as a substitute in this recipe. It will change the flavor slightly, offering a milder nuttiness compared to hazelnuts, but still produce delicious, moist cookies.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, it is completely vegan as it uses plant-based milk and no animal products. Just be sure to pick vegan chocolate chips to keep it entirely plant-based.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

They already are gluten-free since hazelnut flour is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free too, as some brands may contain traces of gluten.

What if I don’t have maple syrup on hand?

Honey or agave syrup can work as alternatives to maple syrup, but maple syrup provides that unique depth of flavor that complements the hazelnut and chocolate so well.

How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?

Since this recipe doesn’t use butter, the dough tends to stay rather firm. To avoid spreading, make sure your dough isn’t too warm when shaping the cookies, and avoid adding extra liquid beyond what the recipe calls for.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy No-Butter Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-to bakes. They are perfectly chocolatey, satisfyingly nutty, and keep things wholesome without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. I truly hope you give these a try and fall in love with them as much as I have. Happy baking and even happier snacking!

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