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Craving a decadent treat? These Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies will exceed your wildest dreams! Imagine biting into a warm cookie, only to discover a rich, melty surprise inside. They are easy to make, use simple ingredients, and taste incredible. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful twist on a classic favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and bake up some magic!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Surprise: Each cookie has a gooey Nutella center that melts in your mouth, making every bite an indulgent treat.
- Perfect Texture: The combination of crispy edges and a soft, chewy center creates a delightful contrast in every cookie.
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, these cookies are a breeze to make, perfect for any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are sure to impress family and friends, making them a hit at parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
To make Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookies, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup Nutella (or hazelnut spread)
- Optional: Sea salt for sprinkling
These ingredients create a rich, gooey treat. The blend of butter and sugars gives the cookies a soft texture. The Nutella adds a sweet and creamy center. You can sprinkle sea salt on top for a nice contrast. Each bite combines chocolate and hazelnut perfectly. Prepare these ingredients, and you will be ready to bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside; it’s your dry mix. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the vanilla extract and egg, mixing until fully combined. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips for that sweet touch.
Forming and Baking the Cookies
Before you form the cookies, prepare the Nutella. Scoop small dollops onto a plate, about 1 teaspoon each. Freeze these for 15 minutes. This helps the Nutella stay intact when baking. Now, take about 1.5 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly. Place a frozen Nutella dollop in the center and wrap the dough around it. Roll it into a ball and repeat. Place the cookie balls on your prepared baking sheet, keeping them 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden. The centers should remain soft. If you like, sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top as they cool. Let them sit for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm for that gooey Nutella surprise!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Cookie Texture
To make cookies that are soft yet chewy, use the right butter. I prefer unsalted butter, softened but not melted. Mixing the butter and sugars well creates air pockets. This gives your cookies a nice lift. Be careful not to overmix the dough after adding flour. This keeps the cookies tender.
Using Nutella Effectively
Nutella can be tricky to work with because it melts quickly. I freeze small dollops of Nutella for 15 minutes before adding them to the cookies. This helps keep the Nutella from running out during baking. Place about one teaspoon on a tray, and freeze. It will stay gooey and delicious inside the cookie.
Baking Time and Temperature Insights
Bake your cookies at 350°F (175°C). This temperature gives you the best results. Check your cookies after 10 minutes. You want the edges to be golden, while the centers stay soft. If you like a touch of salt, sprinkle sea salt on top right after baking. This adds a lovely balance to the sweetness.
Pro Tips
- Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
- Don’t Overbake: For gooey centers, remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. They will continue to cook as they cool.
- Experiment with Fillings: Try other fillings like peanut butter or caramel to mix up the flavors in your cookies!
Variations
Alternative Fillings and Flavor Combinations
You can switch up the Nutella filling for other treats. Try peanut butter, caramel, or even cream cheese. Each option gives a new twist. You can also mix flavors. For example, add crushed Oreos or candy pieces into the dough. These additions can change the taste and texture. Don't be afraid to get creative!
Gluten-Free Options
If you need gluten-free cookies, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. You can find many good mixes at the store. Check that they include xanthan gum for the best texture. Make sure the other ingredients are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious cookies.
Vegan Substitute Options
To make vegan cookies, replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. You can also use dairy-free chocolate chips. This way, you can enjoy tasty cookies that fit vegan diets!
Storage Info
How to Store for Freshness
To keep your Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookies fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them soft and chewy. You can store them at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, try refrigerating them. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before eating.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these cookies for later enjoyment. First, allow them to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you want to enjoy them, just take out as many as you like.
Best Ways to Reheat
To reheat your cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-7 minutes. This will help revive that gooey Nutella center. You can also use the microwave for a quick fix. Heat them for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these cookies ahead of time. You can prepare the dough and chill it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps the flavors meld. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop and bake as usual. You can also freeze the dough. To do this, form the cookie balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer them to a bag. They can last for about 3 months. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
To keep your cookies from spreading too much, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This firms up the butter. You can also use more flour if your dough feels too soft. Make sure to measure your flour correctly. Spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Too much flour will make your cookies dry, while too little can cause spreading.
What if I don't have Nutella?
If you don’t have Nutella, don’t worry! You can use any hazelnut spread instead. Almond or peanut butter works well too, but the flavor will change. You can also try chocolate ganache or even cookie dough for a fun twist. Just make sure whatever you use is thick enough to hold its shape during baking.
You learned how to bake delicious cookies using simple ingredients and easy steps. From mixing the batter to exploring variations, this guide covers it all. Remember to store your cookies right for lasting freshness. With these tips, you can impress friends and enjoy tasty treats anytime. Baking is fun, and you'll want to try new flavors, too. Enjoy your baking journey and don’t forget to share your results!
