Nutella stuffed cookies are the perfect combination of gooey, chocolatey indulgence and comforting, soft cookie dough. These cookies are filled with Nutella, offering a rich, melt-in-your-mouth center that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies will surely be a hit.
In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make the best Nutella stuffed cookies, from choosing the right ingredients to expert tips for baking. You’ll also discover variations of this classic recipe to suit all tastes!
Related Resources: Learn more about the science behind browned butter for richer flavor in your cookies here.
Why Nutella Stuffed Cookies Are the Perfect Dessert
Nutella stuffed cookies are not just any ordinary cookie. They are an indulgent treat that combines the sweetness of Nutella with the rich flavor of browned butter and semisweet chocolate. The gooey Nutella center provides an irresistible contrast to the slightly crisp edges of the cookie.
These cookies are perfect for:
- Special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or celebrations
- Dessert lovers who crave chocolatey, gooey goodness
- Anyone who enjoys a classic combination of chocolate chip cookies and hazelnut spread
For other cookie variations, you might be interested in these recipes:
- Earl Grey Cookies for a unique, aromatic twist on traditional cookies.
- Pumpkin Banana Loaf that brings a warm, spiced flavor perfect for fall.
Related Resources: Understand the difference between semisweet and milk chocolate and how it impacts your cookie flavor here.
Essential Ingredients for Nutella Stuffed Cookies
Making Nutella stuffed cookies requires a few key ingredients that come together to create the perfect cookie. Here’s a quick look at the essential elements:
- Nutella: The star of the show, providing a creamy, hazelnut chocolate filling that is both rich and indulgent.
- Browned Butter: Browning the butter enhances its flavor, making the cookies even more deliciously rich.
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips: Adds texture and balances out the sweetness of the Nutella.
- Sea Salt: A pinch of sea salt on top helps to elevate the sweetness and brings out the depth of flavor in the cookies.
Optional Ingredients:
- Chopped Hazelnuts: For an extra nutty crunch.
- Vanilla Extract: To enhance the flavor.
- Cornstarch: Makes the cookies extra chewy.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Nutella Stuffed Cookies
Here’s how you can make these decadent cookies at home with ease. Follow the steps carefully for perfect results.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of browned butter, cooled
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup Nutella (freeze small spoonfuls)
Directions:
- Prepare the Nutella Filling:
- Spoon small amounts of Nutella onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, forming small dollops. Freeze for 1-2 hours to harden.
- Brown the Butter:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and cook until it turns golden brown with a nutty aroma. Let it cool completely. Learn how to brown butter perfectly in your baked goods here.
- Mix the Cookie Dough:
- In a large bowl, beat the browned butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
- Add the Dry Ingredients:
- Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt. Be careful not to overmix; this ensures soft cookies.
- Stuff the Cookies:
- Take a spoonful of dough, flatten it slightly, place a frozen Nutella dollop in the center, and seal the dough around it. Roll into a ball and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-13 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the center is still soft.
- Finish with Sea Salt:
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top for that perfect sweet-and-salty balance.
*Watch how to make it here
Tips for Perfect Nutella Stuffed Cookies
To ensure that your cookies come out perfectly soft and gooey, follow these expert tips:
- Chill the Dough: Let the dough chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before baking. This helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Seal the Nutella Well: Ensure the Nutella is fully enclosed within the dough to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
- Don’t Over-Bake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so remove them from the oven when the edges are golden but the center is still soft.
Nutella Stuffed Cookies Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these variations to customize your cookies:
- Peanut Butter Nutella Cookies: Swap the Nutella for peanut butter or add a layer of peanut butter alongside the Nutella filling for a peanut butter-chocolate combo.
- Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and eggs with flax eggs or an egg replacer.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour as a substitute for regular flour for a gluten-free version.
How to Store and Reheat Nutella Stuffed Cookies
To store your cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, freeze them for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat:
- Microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm, gooey center.
- Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 300°F for 5-8 minutes to bring them back to their fresh, chewy texture.
The Best Pairings with Nutella Stuffed Cookies
These cookies are so indulgent that they’re perfect on their own, but pairing them with certain treats and beverages will elevate the experience:
- Milk: A classic pairing that complements the chocolate filling.
- Coffee or Hot Chocolate: The rich flavors of Nutella blend perfectly with a hot drink, especially on a chilly day.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Top a warm Nutella stuffed cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Nutella Stuffed Cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and freeze it for up to 2 weeks. Just scoop, stuff, and bake as usual.
Why does my Nutella filling leak out?
The key is to seal the Nutella inside the dough thoroughly. If the dough is too thin, it might crack during baking, causing the Nutella to leak out.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate?
Yes, though milk chocolate will make the cookies sweeter. Experiment to find which type of chocolate you prefer.
How do I keep the Nutella filling from melting too much?
Freezing the Nutella dollops before stuffing them into the dough helps keep the filling intact during baking.
Conclusion
Nutella stuffed cookies are a decadent treat that combines the best of both worlds: the gooey Nutella center and the chewy, buttery cookie dough. Whether you enjoy them as-is or experiment with creative variations, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Try making your own Nutella stuffed cookies today and share them with friends and family – they won’t be able to resist!