Get ready to transform your kitchen into a gourmet bakery with these mouthwatering Crunchy Delicious Hazelnut Sticks! Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, buttery treat that crumbles delicately, releasing the rich, toasted essence of hazelnuts. These Italian-inspired delights are not just a cookie – they're a culinary experience that will transport your taste buds to a charming café in the heart of Italy. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pastry chef, these hazelnut sticks are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 24 sticks
Ingredients
- 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Toast the hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant and lightly golden. Allow to cool, then chop finely.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped toasted hazelnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Take small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into thin stick shapes, approximately 3-4 inches long.
- Place the hazelnut sticks on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the hazelnut sticks cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the sticks to a wire rack to cool completely. They will become crispier as they cool.
- Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Toasting Technique: The key to maximum flavor is carefully toasting your hazelnuts. Watch them closely and stir constantly to prevent burning – you want a golden color and fragrant aroma.
- Butter Matters: Use room temperature butter for the smoothest, fluffiest cream base. Cold butter won't incorporate as easily and can lead to a less tender cookie.
- Dough Consistency: If the dough seems too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before shaping. This will make it easier to roll into perfect sticks.
- Uniform Sizing: Use a tablespoon measure or small cookie scoop to ensure consistent stick sizes, which means even baking.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the hazelnut sticks to cool completely on the wire rack. They continue to crisp up as they cool, developing that perfect crunchy texture.
- Storage Secret: Keep these treats in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture. They'll stay fresh for up to 5 days – if they last that long!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg