There’s a certain comfort in the kitchen that transforms a regular afternoon into a cozy retreat filled with delightful aromas and the promise of something sweet. That’s how I discovered the joy of making Nussecken — these rich, nutty treats that pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. The gooey apricot jam juxtaposed with a buttery shortbread base and a hazelnut topping creates a flavor profile that’s both satisfying and utterly indulgent.
I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those weekends where savory takeout just wouldn’t do. As I rummaged through my pantry, I found an assortment of ingredients that hinted at the potential for a delicious creation. With a little creativity and some pantry staples, I whipped up these delectable squares that have since become a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
Hosting friends for a cozy evening or simply craving something homemade? Nussecken are not only easy to make, but they also deliver an impressive look and taste that will surely wow anyone you share them with. Let’s dive into making this irresistible treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why are Nussecken a must-try dessert?
Deliciously Unique: Nussecken are not your average dessert; their perfect blend of shortbread, apricot jam, and hazelnut topping creates an extraordinary flavor experience.
Easy Preparation: You’ll love how simple this recipe is — no complicated techniques required!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: From family gatherings to coffee dates, these treats are guaranteed to impress.
Versatile Choices: Feel free to substitute apricot jam with your favorite fruit preserve for a twist!
Perfectly Pairing: Enjoy them with your morning coffee or as an evening dessert, making every occasion special.
Nussecken Ingredients
For the Shortbread Base
• Unsalted butter – ½ cup, softened to room temperature for a creamy texture.
• Sugar – ½ cup, sweetening the base beautifully.
• Large eggs – 2, at room temperature for better mixing.
• Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons to enhance the flavor profile.
• Baking powder – 1 teaspoon for a light, airy texture.
• Salt – 1 pinch to balance the sweetness.
• All-purpose flour – 2 ½ cups, forming the base of your Nussecken.
For the Apricot Layer
• Apricot jam – ⅓ cup, providing a sweet and tart contrast that enriches your dessert.
For the Hazelnut Topping
• Unsalted butter – 1 cup, melted to combine flavors seamlessly.
• Rum (or water) – 5 tablespoons, adding moisture and depth to the mix.
• Light brown sugar – 1 cup, giving a rich sweetness to the topping.
• Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons for a warm, comforting essence.
• Whole hazelnuts – 1 cup, lending a satisfying crunch to every bite.
• Hazelnut meal (or almond meal) – 2 cups, creating a rich nutty flavor.
For the Chocolate Glaze
• Dark chocolate – 1 cup, chopped or as chips for a luscious finish.
• Butter – 1 teaspoon (optional), adding a glossy sheen to the glaze.
These Nussecken ingredients come together to create a dessert that is both elegant and irresistibly delicious!
How to Make Nussecken
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Cream Together: Start by creaming the softened butter and sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a delightful texture in your shortbread base.
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Add Eggs and Flavor: Incorporate the eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined for maximum flavor infusion.
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Incorporate Flour: Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender shortbread base that will melt in your mouth.
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Press into Pan: Evenly press the mixture into the bottom of a baking pan, creating a solid foundation. Spread the apricot jam evenly over the top, letting it ooze into the crevices for added deliciousness.
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Prepare Hazelnut Mixture: For the hazelnut layer, melt the cup of unsalted butter and mix it in a bowl with the rum (or water), brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until well blended.
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Add Hazelnuts: Toss in the whole hazelnuts and hazelnut meal, mixing until everything is well combined. You’ll love the nutty aroma wafting up from this mixture!
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Layer the Hazelnuts: Pour the hazelnut mixture over the apricot jam in your baking pan, spreading it evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
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Bake to Perfection: Pop the pan into the oven and bake until golden brown, usually around 25-30 minutes. The edges should be a lovely golden hue.
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Make the Glaze: For the chocolate glaze, melt the dark chocolate with the optional butter and drizzle it over the cooled dessert, enhancing its visual appeal and flavor profile.
Optional: Sprinkle some extra chopped hazelnuts on top for an added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Nussecken Variations & Substitutions
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists that will elevate your Nussecken experience!
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Nut-Free: Substitute hazelnuts with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin for a nut-free alternative, while still achieving a satisfying crunch.
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Fruit Variations: Swap the apricot jam for raspberry, peach, or even fig preserves to change up the flavor profile and add your personal touch.
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Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, ensuring everyone can enjoy this treat.
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Decadent Chocolate: Add a layer of chocolate spread underneath the apricot jam for an extra-rich flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Spice It Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the shortbread base to introduce warmth and depth, making your Nussecken perfect for cozy evenings.
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Coconut Twist: Fold shredded coconut into the hazelnut topping for a tropical vibe that pairs wonderfully with the apricot jam.
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Less Sugar: Sweeten with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a healthier take without sacrificing taste.
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Whiskey Flavor Boost: Instead of rum, try using bourbon or whiskey for a deeper, more complex flavor that enhances the nuttiness of your recipe.
Each of these variations not only brings a fresh spin to your Nussecken but also keeps the comforting essence of this beloved dessert alive. Enjoy experimenting!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Nussecken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shortbread base and the apricot layer up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the shortbread, press it into the baking pan, and spread the apricot jam over the top before refrigerating it. The hazelnut topping can also be assembled up to 3 days ahead; just keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. When you’re ready to serve, pour the hazelnut mixture over the apricot layer and bake. Finish off with the chocolate glaze for an irresistible treat that’s just as delicious, simplifying your dessert plans without compromising quality!
How to Store and Freeze Nussecken
Room Temperature: Keep your Nussecken in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer them chilled or wish to extend freshness, store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Ensure they are well-covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Nussecken wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. They will last up to 3 months!
Reheating: To enjoy warm, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes. A little warmth will enhance their deliciousness!
Expert Tips for Nussecken
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Perfecting the Base: Ensure your butter is truly at room temperature to cream well with the sugar, resulting in that light and fluffy texture essential for your shortbread base.
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Avoid Overmixing: When incorporating the flour into your Nussecken, mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a tough base instead of a tender one.
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Jam Distribution: Spread the apricot jam generously, but leave a small border around the edges to prevent it from spilling over while baking.
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Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your Nussecken as they bake; they should be golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out clean but slightly moist, indicating gooey goodness!
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Chill for Glaze: Allow your dessert to cool completely before drizzling with chocolate. This prevents the glaze from melting into the Nussecken and helps maintain their beautiful layers.
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Customize with Nuts: Don’t hesitate to substitute the hazelnuts with your favorite nuts if desired. Just make sure to adjust for the nuttiness in your Nussecken!
What to Serve with Nussecken?
Savoring the nutty richness of these delightful squares calls for the perfect accompaniments to elevate your dessert experience.
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Fresh Berries: Serve with a medley of fresh strawberries and raspberries for a burst of tanginess that beautifully contrasts the sweetness.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that enhances each bite while balancing the richness of the Nussecken.
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Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of coffee or a shot of espresso pair perfectly, creating a delicious harmony with the chocolate and hazelnut notes.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The luscious creaminess of vanilla ice cream melts indulgently alongside these treats, offering a delightful temperature contrast.
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Mint Tea: A refreshing cup of mint tea cleanses the palate and complements the nutty and fruity flavors, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over each piece for a rich, sweet addition that adds an extra layer of decadence.
For an unforgettable dessert experience, these pairings will ensure your Nussecken become the star of any gathering!
Nussecken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe apricot jam for my Nussecken?
Absolutely! When selecting apricot jam, look for a vibrant color and a smooth texture. Avoid jams with dark spots or excessive sugar, as this can indicate over-ripeness or artificial additives. A quality jam should have a bright apricot flavor and a consistency that spreads easily.
What’s the best way to store leftover Nussecken?
For the best flavor and freshness, store your Nussecken in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delightful for up to 3 days. For longer shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but ensure they are well-covered to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Nussecken, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Nussecken, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They will maintain their deliciousness for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours, and they’ll be just as delightful as fresh!
What should I do if my shortbread base is too crumbly?
If you experience a crumbly shortbread base, it may be due to overmixing or not enough moisture. To remedy this, you can try adding a tablespoon of cold melted butter or a splash of water while mixing. Remember to handle the dough gently; the more you mix, the tougher the base can become.
Are there any allergen considerations with Nussecken?
Yes, be mindful that Nussecken contain ingredients that might trigger allergies, such as nuts and gluten (from the flour). You can substitute hazelnuts with pecans or walnuts if nut allergies are a concern. For gluten-free options, almond flour can replace all-purpose flour, though it may change the texture slightly.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the Nussecken?
Very! If you’d like a less sweet dessert, consider reducing the sugar in both the shortbread base and the hazelnut topping by about ¼ cup. Additionally, using a less sweet fruit jam can also help balance the flavors, creating a delightful treat that suits your palate!
Mouthwatering Nussecken: Elevate Your Dessert Game Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour until just combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a baking pan and spread apricot jam on top.
- Melt the unsalted butter and mix with rum (or water), brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Add whole hazelnuts and hazelnut meal, mixing until well combined.
- Pour the hazelnut mixture over the apricot jam, spreading evenly.
- Bake in the oven until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
- Melt dark chocolate with optional butter and drizzle over the cooled dessert.