Oregon’s Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookie

Treat yourself to the delightful flavors of Oregon’s Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookie, a cherished recipe passed down from the bygone era of the Great Depression. Embodying the resourcefulness of that time, these nutty cookies pay homage to the abundant hazelnuts found in the bountiful state of Oregon. As a hit among the ladies at the craft club, these cookies serve as a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients in creating unforgettable treats.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2⅓ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
• ¾ cup chopped hazelnuts

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and both sugars on medium speed for 3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Incorporate the vanilla extract into the mixture.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the batter, ensuring everything is well combined. Fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and chopped hazelnuts.
3. Drop the cookie dough by heaping tablespoonfuls, 3 inches apart, onto lightly greased baking sheets. Lightly flatten each cookie with a fork.
4. Bake the cookies at 350° for 10-12 minutes or until they turn light brown. Remove them from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool.

YIELD: 3 dozen cookies

PREP/TOTAL TIME: 25 minutes

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Creaming the butter and sugars until light and fluffy contributes to the cookies’ soft and tender texture.
• Ensure the cookie dough is dropped onto the baking sheets with enough spacing to allow them to spread while baking.

TIPS:

• To enhance the nutty flavor, toast the hazelnuts before chopping and incorporating them into the cookie dough.
• For a delightful twist, use a combination of semisweet and dark chocolate chips for added depth of flavor.

In conclusion, Oregon’s Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookie is a delightful homage to the wisdom of using local resources and simple ingredients to create delectable treats. Passed down from the days of the Great Depression, these cookies exemplify the resilience of that era and continue to captivate the taste buds of craft club members in Eugene, Oregon.

The combination of soft butter, two types of sugar, and a hint of vanilla contributes to the cookie’s luscious flavor and tender texture. Folding in the semisweet chocolate chips and chopped hazelnuts adds a delightful nutty crunch, making each bite a delightful surprise.

Oregon, known for its abundant hazelnuts, provides the perfect canvas for crafting these irresistible cookies. As a testament to the power of using what is readily available, these cookies echo the wise words of Selmer Looney’s mother: “It doesn’t have to be expensive to be good.” Indeed, the simple yet wholesome ingredients in this recipe create a delightful symphony of flavors.

As these cookies bake, the delightful aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air, creating a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Each batch of Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookies becomes a delightful treat, evoking feelings of togetherness and cherished memories of days gone by.

The popularity of these cookies among the ladies at the craft club in Eugene speaks volumes about the timelessness of this recipe. Their enthusiasm and delight upon savoring each bite are a testament to the enduring appeal of these cookies, a true crowd-pleaser that stands the test of time.

So, whether you’re reminiscing about the days of the Great Depression or simply seeking a delicious treat to share with loved ones, Oregon’s Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookie is a delightful choice. As you savor the nutty goodness and the familiar taste of chocolate chips, let it transport you to the heart of Oregon, where these cookies have been bringing joy and smiles for generations.