Have You Ever Wondered What Separates a Good Cookie from a Truly Unforgettable One?
It’s a question that has circled my mind for years, especially during late night baking sessions when the house is quiet and the scent of melting chocolate fills the air. Is it a secret ingredient? A complicated technique passed down through generations? Data might suggest that recipes combining chocolate and hazelnut see a significant spike in popularity, but I believe it’s something more. It’s about the feeling a cookie evokes. For me, the answer lies in the perfect bite of these Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a story of comfort, a moment of pure joy, and a treat that brings my family running to the kitchen every single time.
As many of you know from my stories here on Mister Recipes, my love for cooking was sparked in my grandmother’s kitchen. It was a place of warmth, laughter, and the most incredible aromas. She taught me that food is about connection. Now, as a husband and a dad to two amazing kids, I see that truth unfold every day. These cookies are a testament to that philosophy. While there are countless incredible cookie recipes out there, including some fantastic ones from sites like Food Network, I wanted to create a version that was foolproof for busy parents and guaranteed to produce the most delightfully soft and chewy Nutella chocolate chip cookies you’ve ever tasted. This is the recipe my kids ask for by name, the one we make for movie nights, and the one that disappears from the cookie jar almost as fast as I can fill it. It’s more than a dessert; it’s our family’s happy place in cookie form.
Why You’ll Love This Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
This easy Nutella chocolate chip cookies recipe has quickly become a legend in my home, and I’m confident it will in yours too. It’s one of those recipes that feels both wonderfully indulgent and surprisingly simple, hitting that sweet spot we’re all looking for. It’s crafted for real life, for busy weeknights when you need a quick treat, for lazy Sunday afternoons spent baking with the kids, and for those moments when only a warm, gooey cookie will do. Each bite is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, from the crisp edges to the unbelievably soft center, bursting with pockets of melted chocolate and swirls of creamy Nutella. These cookies are more than just good; they’re a memorable experience, and here’s exactly why you’ll fall in love with them.
- Incredibly Rich and Flavorful. The combination of classic chocolate chip cookie dough with generous swirls of Nutella creates a flavor profile that is simply out of this world. The nutty, chocolatey richness of the Nutella complements the sweet, buttery cookie and semi sweet chocolate chips, resulting in a perfectly balanced and deeply satisfying treat.
- Perfectly Soft and Chewy Texture. If you’re a fan of soft Nutella cookies, this recipe is your holy grail. We use just the right ratio of ingredients and a specific method to ensure a texture that is delightfully soft and chewy for days. Say goodbye to dry, crumbly cookies for good.
- Simple, No Fuss Instructions. I developed this recipe with busy home cooks in mind. You don’t need any fancy equipment or advanced baking skills to achieve bakery quality results. The steps are straightforward and clear, making it a fantastic recipe for baking with children or for anyone new to homemade cookies. It’s a truly quick and easy Nutella cookies recipe.
- A Guaranteed Crowd Pleaser. Whether you’re making them for your family, a potluck, a school bake sale, or a holiday gathering, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit. It’s the best Nutella cookie recipe to have in your back pocket for any occasion that calls for a delicious, heartwarming treat. They look impressive, taste even better, and will have everyone asking for the recipe. Much like my easy chocolate crinkle cookies recipe, they are a certified showstopper.
Ingredients for Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
This recipe uses simple, staple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create these incredible homemade Nutella cookies:
- Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt content. It should be softened to room temperature for proper creaming.
- Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: The combination is key. Granulated sugar provides sweetness and crisp edges, while brown sugar adds moisture, chewiness, and a hint of molasses flavor.
- Eggs: To bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- Nutella: The star of the show! This creamy chocolate hazelnut spread is swirled into the dough for that signature flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: A crucial ingredient that enhances all the other flavors in the cookie.
- All Purpose Flour: The structural backbone of the cookies.
- Baking Soda: The leavening agent that helps the cookies rise and spread perfectly.
- Salt: To balance the sweetness and bring out the chocolate flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi sweet chocolate chips work best to balance the sweetness of the Nutella, but feel free to use milk or dark chocolate if you prefer.
How to Make Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step by Step Instructions
Creating these delightful cookies is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps for the best ever Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookies experience right in your own kitchen. I’ve broken it down to be as clear as possible, so grab your apron, and let’s get baking. This is where the magic happens, turning a simple list of ingredients into warm, gooey circles of happiness. We’re not just mixing dough; we’re creating memories. Remember my grandmother’s advice: cooking is about making people happy. And trust me, these cookies deliver pure happiness. Let’s walk through the process together, ensuring you feel confident and excited at every stage. There are no complicated maneuvers here, just simple techniques that lead to phenomenal results. This is the heart of home baking, and you’re going to be brilliant at it. Let’s begin this delicious journey to the perfect batch of homemade cookies.
- Prepare Your Station: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This simple step is a game changer for even baking.
- Cream the Fats and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, either with a stand mixer or a hand mixer, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air, which leads to a softer cookie.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to make sure everything is incorporated. Beat in the vanilla extract and the Nutella until just combined. The batter will look beautifully marbled and smell incredible at this point.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed, which is key for a uniform cookie texture.
- Create the Cookie Dough: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be very careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies. Stop as soon as the flour streaks disappear.
- Fold in the Treasure: Gently fold in the chocolate chips using a rubber spatula. This is the final touch to the perfect Nutella cookie dough.
- Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. For that signature stuffed look, you can slightly indent the top of each dough ball and add a tiny extra dollop of Nutella before baking.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft. They might look slightly underdone in the middle, but they will continue to bake on the hot pan. This is the secret to keeping them soft.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to set properly. Then, pour a glass of milk and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Pro Tips & Variations
After making this Nutella chocolate chip cookies recipe more times than I can count, I’ve picked up a few tricks that take them from great to absolutely exceptional. These little secrets will help you perfect the texture, enhance the flavor, and even customize the recipe to your liking. Think of these as my personal notes passed from my kitchen to yours. Plus, I’ve included a few fun variations for when you feel like getting creative. Baking should be an adventure, and a solid base recipe like this is the perfect starting point for exploration. You can stick to the classic or try a new twist each time. It’s also fun to try different cookie styles, like my simple but elegant jam thumbprints, which also feature a delicious filling.
- The Frozen Nutella Trick: If you want an intensely gooey, lava like Nutella center, this is the ultimate hack for perfect Nutella stuffed cookies. Drop teaspoon sized dollops of Nutella onto a parchment lined plate and freeze them for at least 30 minutes until solid. When you’re forming your cookie dough balls, flatten one out, place a frozen Nutella puck in the center, and wrap the dough around it. This prevents the Nutella from blending into the dough and instead creates a molten core.
- Don’t Skip the Chill (If You Have Time): While this is designed as a quick Nutella cookies recipe, chilling the dough for just 30 minutes to an hour can make a big difference. It solidifies the butter, which prevents the cookies from spreading too much, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie. It also allows the flavors to meld together more deeply.
- Go for Flaky Sea Salt: Just before baking, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt over the top of each cookie dough ball. The salt enhances the chocolate flavor, cuts through the sweetness of the Nutella, and adds a delightful textural crunch. It’s a simple, cheflike touch that elevates the entire cookie experience.
- Variation: Nutella Cookie Bars: If you’re short on time or don’t want to scoop individual cookies, turn this recipe into Nutella cookie bars. Simply press the entire batch of dough into a greased and parchment lined 9×13 inch baking pan, swirl a little extra Nutella on top, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Variation: Mix Up Your Chips and Nuts: Feel free to customize the recipe by using different types of chocolate chips like white chocolate, peanut butter chips, or a mix. For extra crunch and flavor, fold in a half cup of toasted chopped hazelnuts or pecans to create delicious chocolate hazelnut cookies.
Serving Suggestions
A warm, freshly baked cookie is a delight on its own, but the right pairing can turn it into a truly memorable dessert experience. These Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies are incredibly versatile and play well with a variety of accompaniments. Part of the joy of being a home cook is presenting your creations in a way that feels special, whether it’s for a simple after school snack or the grand finale of a dinner party. Thinking about how to serve a dish is just as important as the recipe itself. It’s another way to show love and create a moment of connection. Here are some of my family’s favorite ways to enjoy these gooey, chocolatey treats, turning a simple cookie into a celebration. These ideas range from classic comforts to slightly more elevated presentations, ensuring you have the perfect serving option for any mood or occasion that arises.
- The Classic: A Cold Glass of Milk. There is nothing more iconic or comforting than a warm chocolate chip cookie served with a tall, cold glass of milk. The creamy milk perfectly balances the richness of the chocolate and Nutella. It’s a timeless pairing for a reason and a huge hit with kids and adults alike.
- À La Mode: For a truly decadent dessert, serve a warm Nutella cookie straight from the oven with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast between the warm, gooey cookie and the cold, creamy ice cream is absolutely divine. A little drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on top wouldn’t hurt either!
- Coffee or Espresso Companion: For a more grown up treat, pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee or a freshly brewed espresso. The slight bitterness of the coffee cuts through the sweetness of the cookie beautifully, making for a sophisticated and satisfying afternoon pick me up.
- The Ultimate Cookie Platter: Planning a party or holiday gathering? Create a stunning and diverse cookie platter. These Nutella cookies are a fantastic centerpiece. Arrange them alongside other favorites like my easy peanut butter blossoms cookies recipe with creamy centers or some wonderfully spiced soft molasses cookies. The variety of flavors and textures will impress all your guests.
Storage & Reheating for Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
To keep your cookies tasting fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. Here’s how to store and reheat your homemade Nutella cookies:
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and chewy for up to 4 days. Placing a slice of bread in the container can help maintain their moisture.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: You can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer safe zip top bag or container. Thaw them at room temperature or warm them up using the method below.
- Freezing the Dough: This is my favorite make ahead tip! Scoop the Nutella cookie dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer bag. You can bake them directly from the freezer; just add 2 to 3 minutes to the baking time.
- Reheating: To restore that fresh from the oven gooeyness, microwave a cookie for about 10 to 15 seconds or warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes until heated through.
FAQ about Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making this Nutella chocolate cookies recipe:
Why did my cookies spread so much?
Cookie spreading is usually due to overly soft or melted butter. Make sure your butter is at room temperature (cool to the touch, but malleable) and not greasy. Chilling the dough, as mentioned in the pro tips, is the best way to prevent spreading and create thicker, chewier cookies.
Can I make these cookies with a different hazelnut spread?
Absolutely! While Nutella is the classic choice, you can use any brand of chocolate hazelnut spread you prefer. The flavor and consistency may vary slightly, but the results will still be delicious.
What’s the secret to making the best ever Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookies?
The ultimate secret is the frozen Nutella trick! Freezing small dollops of Nutella before wrapping them in cookie dough ensures you get that distinct, molten, gooey center that defines a true Nutella stuffed cookie. It’s an extra step that is absolutely worth the effort.
How do I ensure my cookies are soft and not hard?
The key to soft Nutella cookies is to avoid overbaking. Pull them from the oven when the edges are set and golden, but the centers still look a little soft. They will finish baking on the hot pan. Also, using enough brown sugar and not overmixing your dough are crucial for a soft, tender crumb.
Final Thoughts on Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
I truly hope you and your family love making and eating these Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies as much as mine does. Every bite is a reminder that the best food is made with love and meant to be shared. This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s an invitation to create your own warm memories in the kitchen.
If you give this recipe a try, I would be thrilled to hear from you! Please leave a comment and a rating below to let me know how they turned out. And don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest for later! Happy baking!
Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
Equipment
- – Mixing bowls
- electric mixer,
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter softened
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 cup Brown Sugar packed
- 2 large Eggs
- 1/2 cup Nutella
- 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 3 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tsp Baking Soda
- 1 tsp Salt
- 2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in the vanilla extract and Nutella until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips using a rubber spatula.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart. For extra Nutella flavor, slightly indent the top of each dough ball and add a tiny dollop of Nutella before baking.
- Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
