Nutella-Filled Chocolate Chip Cookies

There’s something incredibly magical about biting into a cookie that hides a luscious, molten center. Nutella-Filled Chocolate Chip Cookies take the classic chocolate chip cookie to a whole new level by adding a creamy, hazelnut-chocolate surprise within each bite. These cookies combine the nostalgic comfort of soft-baked chocolate chip cookies with the irresistible richness of Nutella, creating an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for an afternoon snack or a special dessert, these cookies promise a delightful experience that even the pickiest cookie lovers will adore.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes these Nutella-Filled Chocolate Chip Cookies truly stand out is the hidden Nutella center that melts perfectly inside the soft, chewy cookie dough. Instead of just folding in chocolate chips, this recipe encases a dollop of Nutella in the middle, creating a gooey, decadent core that oozes with each bite. The cookie dough itself is soft and buttery, with a perfect balance of sweetness from both granulated and brown sugars, giving it a slight caramel undertone. The addition of semi-sweet chocolate chips adds bursts of chocolate flavor, complementing the Nutella center beautifully.

This recipe is not only delicious but also straightforward, using familiar pantry staples. Plus, these cookies hold their shape well, so you get a consistent Nutella filling every time. If you love The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies but want an unexpected twist, this recipe is your new go-to.

Ingredient Rundown

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and moisture; using unsalted lets you control the salt level.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with cookie spread and crisp edges.
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a deeper caramel flavor, keeping the cookies chewy.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its warm, sweet aroma.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the dough and contribute to the cookie’s soft texture.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough, providing structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread just right.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor complexity.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds chocolate bursts throughout the cookie.
• 1/2 cup Nutella: The star of the show — creamy hazelnut spread that forms the irresistible center.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Mixing bowls – for combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Electric mixer or stand mixer – makes creaming butter and sugar effortless.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurement.
• Baking sheet – to bake cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – prevents sticking and aids cleanup.
• Spoon or cookie scoop – to portion the dough evenly.
• Small spoon or piping bag – useful for placing Nutella dollops inside the dough.
• Cooling rack – to cool cookies evenly and keep them crisp on the outside.

Build Nutella-Filled Chocolate Chip Cookies Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. Add the vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures the eggs are fully incorporated for a smooth dough.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are okay to ensure a tender cookie.

Step 3: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough. This adds chocolate-y pockets that complement the Nutella filling.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps prevent cookies from spreading too much during baking and makes it easier to handle the dough for stuffing.

Step 5: Assemble the Cookies

Take about 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten it into a small disc in your palm. Place about 1 teaspoon of Nutella in the center. Carefully wrap the dough around the Nutella, sealing it completely and rolling it into a smooth ball. Repeat with the remaining dough and Nutella.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Place the filled dough balls on the sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers still look soft.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time lets the Nutella center set slightly but remain luscious and gooey.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

• Add a sprinkle of coarse sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty twist perfect for winter holidays.
• Mix in festive sprinkles or colored sugar crystals into the dough for birthdays or celebrations.
• Swap semi-sweet chips with white chocolate chips and add crushed peppermint candy for a Christmas vibe.
• Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over cooled cookies for an elegant touch.

What Not to Do

• Do not skip chilling the dough; warm dough spreads too much and the Nutella may leak out.
• Avoid overfilling with Nutella – too much can cause the cookie to fall apart during baking.
• Don’t overbake; the cookies should be soft and slightly underbaked in the center for that perfect gooey experience.
• Resist the urge to add too much flour, which can make cookies dry and crumbly.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. This actually improves flavor as the ingredients meld. For longer storage, freeze the dough balls with Nutella inside on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Once baked, keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer freshness, store in the fridge for up to a week or freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. To enjoy, warm them slightly in the microwave to revive that melty Nutella center.

Ask & Learn

Can I substitute Nutella with another spread?

Absolutely! You can use any creamy hazelnut spread or even peanut butter for a different but equally delicious filling. Just make sure it’s smooth enough to melt slightly during baking.

Will these cookies work with dairy-free butter?

Yes, using a quality dairy-free butter alternative works well to keep the cookies soft and flavorful, making them suitable for those avoiding dairy.

How do I make sure the Nutella doesn’t leak during baking?

Chilling the dough before baking and sealing the Nutella completely inside the dough ball are key steps. Avoid overfilling and handle the dough gently to prevent cracks.

Can I make these cookies larger or smaller?

Definitely! Larger cookies will need a longer baking time and will have a more pronounced Nutella center. Smaller cookies bake faster and can be a bite-sized treat. Just keep an eye on the baking time and adjust accordingly.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Try Chocolate Caramel Cookies for a gooey twist with caramel surprises.
• Whip up Homemade Rich Chocolate Cupcakes when you’re craving a soft, fluffy chocolate dessert.
• For a classic favorite, check out The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe and customize it with your own fillings.

Final Bite

Nutella-Filled Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful blend of soft, chewy cookie dough and a molten, nutty chocolate core that makes each bite a little celebration. They’re perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply indulging in moments of pure chocolate-hazelnut bliss. With straightforward ingredients and a simple method, you can elevate your cookie game and impress your family and friends with these irresistible treats. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate cookie experience that’s as comforting as it is decadent.

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