Orange Hazelnut Thumbprints

Directions

1. 1
   In a big bowl combine flour and sugar.
2. 2
   Add hazelnuts and orange zest.
3. 3
   Add buter and cut it in using your fingers until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
4. 4
   Add applesauce and knead into a smooth dough (it should be well workable).
5. 5
   Take walnut sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls.
6. 6
   Make an indentation into each ball using either your finger or a spoon handle.
7. 7
   Fill each indentation with about 1/2 ts of jam.
8. 8
   Bake cookies on a paper-lined baking sheet in the preheated oven at 180C/350F for about 12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
9. 9
   Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.