Introduction
Indulging in a freshly baked cookie is always a treat, but when those cookies have a melty Nutella center, they elevate the experience to a whole new level. This recipe combines the richness of a classic cookie dough with the irresistible allure of Nutella, creating a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them on your own, these cookies are sure to please.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Nutella Filling:
10 slightly heaped tablespoons of Nutella or other chocolate-nut spread
Cookie Dough:
1⅓ cups (200g) plain/all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda (bi-carbonate soda)
¼ teaspoon cooking salt/kosher salt
120g (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, cut into 1 cm (½ inch) cubes
⅔ cup (130g) tightly packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon honey or corn syrup
1 large egg (55g/2 oz), at room temperature
½ cup (85g) dark chocolate chips or chopped 70% dark chocolate
Prep Time
1 hour and 30 minutes (plus 1 hour for freezing Nutella)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12–13 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours and 43 minutes
Yield: 10 cookies
Enjoy your homemade cookies warm for a delightful experience with melty Nutella centers!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare Nutella Discs:
– Line a small tray with baking/parchment paper.
– Dollop 10 slightly heaped tablespoons of Nutella onto the tray, spreading each into approximately 8mm (⅓ inch) thick rounds.
– Freeze for 1 hour or until firm enough to handle.
Make Cookie Dough:
– In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
– In a heatproof bowl, microwave the butter for about 30 seconds on high until mostly melted. Stir with a rubber spatula to finish melting; the mixture should appear milky rather than clear.
– Add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and honey to the melted butter. Stir until combined.
– Add the egg and mix until the mixture resembles thick caramel.
– Incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
– Cover the dough and refrigerate for 1½ hours until firm enough to handle.
Assemble Cookies:
– Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for fan-forced ovens. Lightly grease two baking trays and line them with parchment paper.
– Divide the chilled dough into 10 equal portions.
– Flatten each portion into a disc about 5mm (0.2 inch) thick.
– Place a frozen Nutella disc onto each dough disc.
– Wrap the dough around the Nutella, sealing the edges to enclose the filling completely.
– Place the sealed cookies seam-side down on the prepared trays.
– Gently press additional chocolate chips onto the tops and sides of each cookie.
– Ensure cookies are spaced about 8cm (3 inches) apart to allow for spreading.
Bake:
– Bake both trays simultaneously for 12–13 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are pale golden and just set.
– Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the trays for 10 minutes to finish cooking and set.
– Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and let them cool for at least another 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutella Freezing:
– Make sure the Nutella discs are securely frozen before wrapping to prevent melting during baking.
Room Temperature Ingredients:
– Ensure the butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
Cookie Storage:
– Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions:
– Enjoy the cookies warm for a delightful experience with melty Nutella centers.
Cook techniques
Preparing Nutella Discs
Use a baking tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Dollop Nutella into evenly spaced rounds and freeze until firm to create easy-to-handle discs for your cookies.
Making Cookie Dough
Combine the dry ingredients separately before mixing with melted butter to ensure even distribution. Melt butter until milky to create a smooth texture, and refrigerate the dough for uniform thickness in the cookies.
Assembling Cookies
Divide the cookie dough into equal portions for consistent baking. Flatten the dough discs before placing Nutella in the center, then wrap and seal to prevent leakage during baking. Remember to space the cookies adequately on the tray for proper spreading.
Baking
Bake the cookies until the edges are golden and the centers are just set. Allow them to cool on the tray to continue cooking and achieve the perfect chewy texture before transferring to a wire rack.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of chocolate spread instead of Nutella?
Yes, you can substitute Nutella with any chocolate-nut spread you prefer.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should have golden edges and pale golden centers that are just set but not overbaked.
What should I do if the dough is too sticky to handle?
If the dough is sticky, refrigerate it for a bit longer to help it firm up for easier handling.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Nutella discs and cookie dough in advance, refrigerating or freezing them until ready to bake.
How long do the cookies stay fresh?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for the best taste and texture.
Conclusion
Indulging in these Nutella-filled cookies offers a delightful combination of rich chocolate and nutty flavors. The contrast between the warm, gooey Nutella center and the soft, chewy cookie exterior creates a truly satisfying treat. Enjoy these cookies fresh out of the oven for the best experience, and savor the joy they bring to any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Nutella Stuffed Brownies
Enhance your brownie recipe by swirling in dollops of Nutella before baking for a fudgy, chocolatey surprise.
Banana Nutella Pancakes
Add Nutella to your pancake batter, and serve with sliced bananas for a decadent breakfast treat.
Nutella Cheesecake
Incorporate Nutella into your cheesecake filling for a creamy, rich dessert that chocolate lovers will adore.
Nutella Milkshake
Blend Nutella with milk and ice cream to create a creamy milkshake topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Nutella French Toast
Spread Nutella between slices of bread, dip in an egg mixture, then grill for a delightful twist on traditional French toast.
Nutella and Strawberry Tart
Fill a tart shell with Nutella and layer with fresh strawberries for a deliciously sweet dessert.
Nutella Energy Bites
Mix oats, Nutella, and your choice of nuts or seeds, then roll into bite-sized balls for a quick and healthy snack.
