If you love cookies, you're in for a treat! These Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies are a game-changer. Imagine biting into a warm cookie and finding gooey Nutella inside. I’ll guide you step-by-step to create these delicious bites. Whether you're a baking pro or a beginner, you’ll impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into the sweet world of chocolatey goodness and transform your kitchen today!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Surprise: Each cookie is filled with creamy Nutella, adding a delightful surprise that elevates the classic chocolate chip cookie experience.
- Soft and Chewy: The perfect balance of softness and chewiness makes these cookies incredibly satisfying to eat, right out of the oven or later.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe is easy to whip up whenever a cookie craving strikes, without needing special items.
- Great for Sharing: With 24 cookies per batch, they’re perfect for sharing with friends, family, or at gatherings, spreading joy one cookie at a time!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookies, you need these simple ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup Nutella or your favorite hazelnut spread
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap some ingredients if needed:
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
- Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier choice.
- Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
- If you lack eggs, try using 1/4 cup of applesauce for each egg.
Nutritional Information (per cookie)
Each cookie has around:
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
These cookies offer a tasty treat with a touch of Nutella!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key to getting even baking. While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper. This helps the cookies not to stick.
Creaming the Butters and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix for about 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This step adds air to your cookies, making them soft.
Mixing in the Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the pure vanilla extract. Then, crack in the eggs, one at a time. Make sure to mix until the batter is smooth. Each egg should blend in before adding the next one. This keeps the texture just right.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and fine sea salt. Slowly add this dry mix to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed. Be careful not to over mix, as this can make cookies tough.
Adding Chocolate Chips
Now it's time to fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon. Make sure the chips are spread evenly throughout the dough. This adds rich flavor in every bite.
Stuffing and Shaping Cookies
To form the cookies, scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough. Flatten it slightly in your hand. Now, add a teaspoon of Nutella in the center. Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the Nutella. Roll it into a ball and place it on the baking sheet. Space them 2 inches apart for even baking.
Baking and Cooling the Cookies
Put the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be golden brown while the centers remain soft. They will firm up as they cool, so don’t over-bake. Once baked, let them cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Perfectly Soft Centers
To get soft centers in your cookies, bake them just right. Keep an eye on the edges. They should be golden brown, and the centers should look a bit underbaked. They will firm up as they cool. This is key to that gooey bliss when biting into the Nutella.
How to Avoid Overmixing
Overmixing can make your cookies tough. Mix until the dry ingredients just blend in. You want some lumps to keep the cookies soft. Use a spatula to fold in the chocolate chips gently. Your dough should be thick but not dry.
Storage and Freezing Advice
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about a week. For longer storage, freeze them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies warm for a treat that melts in your mouth. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee. For a fun twist, sprinkle some sea salt on top before serving. This adds a nice contrast to the sweet Nutella.
Pro Tips
- Chill the Dough: For even thicker and chewier cookies, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps to solidify the fat, preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough, which leads to a smoother texture and more even baking.
- Don't Overbake: To achieve soft and gooey centers, remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Try swapping Nutella for peanut butter or adding a dollop of caramel for a different flavor twist.
Variations
Using Different Nut Spreads
You can switch Nutella for other nut spreads. Try almond or cashew butter for a new twist. Each spread adds its own flavor. You can even use seed spreads if you want a nut-free option. Sunflower seed spread works well too. Just remember to adjust the amount slightly if needed.
Gluten-Free Options
For gluten-free cookies, use a blend of gluten-free flour. Make sure to pick a mix that has xanthan gum. This helps bind the cookies. You can also use almond flour, but the texture will differ. Just keep the ratio close to the original flour amount. Experiment until you find what works best for you.
Incorporating Additional Mix-ins
Adding mix-ins can boost flavor and texture. Try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans. You can also include dried fruit, like cranberries or cherries. For a fun touch, throw in some toffee bits or coconut flakes. Just keep the total amount of mix-ins to about one cup. This way, the cookies stay soft and chewy.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Freshness
To keep your Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep the container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to enjoy them longer, follow the freezing instructions below.
Long-Term Freezing Instructions
For long-term storage, freeze the cookies. First, allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour until firm. After that, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
How to Reheat for Optimal Texture
To reheat frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-8 minutes. This will restore their soft, gooey center. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!
FAQs
Can I make these cookies without Nutella?
Yes, you can. If you want a different flavor, try peanut butter or chocolate ganache. Just remember to adjust the amount to keep the cookie's shape.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to five days. Keep them at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for golden brown edges. The centers should feel soft but not wet. If they look puffy and dry, they are likely over-baked.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can. Make the dough and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before baking.
What can I use as a substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.
You’ve explored a detailed guide on making delicious cookies. From key ingredients to baking tips, you've got the tools you need. Remember to experiment with variations and try different spreads for fun flavors. Store your cookies properly to keep them fresh. With these tips, you can bake perfect cookies every time. Enjoy your baking journey!
