Baci di Dama - Hazelnut Cookies
These Baci di Dama - Hazelnut Cookies are irresistibly nutty and chocolaty! Perfectly delicate Italian treats with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich chocolate center.
Equipment
- Food Processor
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Double boiler
- Microwave
- Cookie Scoop
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 100 g hazelnuts peeled
- 100 g sugar
- 100 g all-purpose flour
- 100 g butter cold, cut into small cubes
- 40 g dark chocolate chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Hazelnuts
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread the peeled hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast them for about 10 minutes or until golden and fragrant. Allow to cool.
Process the Hazelnuts
- Transfer the cooled hazelnuts to a food processor. Pulse until finely ground but not a paste, aiming for a coarse meal texture.
Mix the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground hazelnuts, sugar, and flour. Add the cold cubed butter and work into the dry ingredients using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Avoid overmixing.
Form and Bake the Cookies
- Roll small portions of dough into walnut-sized balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden around edges. Cookies will firm as they cool.
Melt the Chocolate
- Melt the chopped dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave, heating in short bursts and stirring until smooth.
Assemble the Cookies
- Once cookies are completely cooled, pair them by size. Spread a dollop of melted chocolate on the flat side of one cookie and press another cookie on top to create a sandwich. Repeat for all cookies.
Chill and Serve
- Place assembled cookies in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set the chocolate. Serve and enjoy with coffee or tea.
Notes
- Ensure butter is cold to achieve the perfect crumbly texture.
- Toast hazelnuts to enhance their flavor before grinding.
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.