Nutella stuffed chocolate cookies are dense, chewy cocoa-based treats featuring a gooey hazelnut spread center encased in a rich dough. This dessert combines the classic appeal of a homemade chocolate chip cookie with the luxurious indulgence of a hidden molten Nutella core. Bakers achieve the perfect texture by carefully chilling the dough and balancing the sugar ratios to ensure these cookies remain soft for days after baking.

| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 12 minutes |
| Total Time | 42 minutes |
| Servings | 12 cookies |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Cuisine | Modern American |
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because the high butter content and precise ratio of brown sugar create a chewy structure that holds the molten core perfectly. I spent months perfecting this technique, finding that freezing the Nutella dollops before assembly is the secret to preventing the spread from leaking out into the oven tray during the bake.
You will love how the slight bitterness of the chocolate dough complements the sweet hazelnut spread inside each bite. By using a combination of granulated and brown sugar, you create a complex flavor profile with a signature golden exterior and a tender, moist interior crumb.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 1 cup | Unsalted, softened |
| Brown Sugar | 1 cup | Packed, adds chewiness |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/2 cup | For crisp edges |
| Egg | 1 large | Room temperature |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | Pure extract preferred |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups | Measure using spoon-and-level |
| Baking Soda | 1/2 tsp | Ensure it is fresh |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Fine sea salt |
| Chocolate Chips | 1 cup | Semi-sweet work best |
| Nutella | 1/2 cup | Keep chilled until needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Nutella Core
- Scoop twelve small dollops of Nutella onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze these dollops for at least one hour until firm.
Mixing the Dough
- Cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated into the butter mixture.
- Whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate container before adding to the wet ingredients.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently to distribute them evenly throughout the dough.
Assembly and Baking
- Divide the cookie dough into twelve equal portions using a scoop or kitchen scale.
- Flatten each portion of dough in your hand and place a frozen Nutella dollop in the center.
- Wrap the edges of the dough around the Nutella to seal it completely inside.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 12 minutes until the edges are golden.
Chef Tips for Perfect Results
- Always keep your Nutella dollops frozen until the exact moment you are ready to wrap them to ensure they maintain their shape.
- Use a digital scale for measuring flour to maintain consistent dough density across every batch.
- Avoid overbaking by removing cookies when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft.
- Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for five minutes to allow the structure to firm up properly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to seal the dough completely causes the Nutella to leak out, resulting in flat, messy cookies.
- Using warm butter makes the dough spread too quickly, losing the necessary thickness to hold the filling.
- Measuring flour by scooping directly with the cup packs it down, resulting in dry, crumbly cookies.
- Baking on a hot sheet pan causes the bottom of the cookies to brown before the center finishes cooking.
Variations and Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitution | Impact on Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Nutella | Almond butter | Less sweet, nutty profile |
| Chocolate Chips | White chocolate chips | Sweeter, creamier contrast |
| Butter | Coconut oil | Subtle tropical hint |
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve these cookies warm with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of black coffee to balance the sugar content. They are perfect for dessert buffets, holiday parties, or as a decadent treat during afternoon tea. For a gourmet presentation, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top immediately after removing them from the oven.
Storage and Reheating
| Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3 days | Keep in an airtight container |
| Freezer | 3 months | Store in a freezer-safe bag |
| Reheating | 15 seconds | Microwave on low heat |
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Fat | 18g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 28g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different hazelnut spread?
You can use any high-quality store-brand hazelnut spread as a substitute for Nutella without altering the cooking time. Ensure the viscosity is similar to ensure the center remains gooey after baking.
How do I know when these cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges look firm and golden while the centers still appear slightly soft. Residual heat will continue to cook the centers once they are removed from the oven.
Why did my Nutella leak out of the cookie?
Leakage occurs if the dough is not fully sealed around the frozen center or if the Nutella was not frozen long enough before assembly. Ensure there are no cracks in the dough shell before placing them in the oven.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough up to two days in advance and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Allow the dough to sit at room temperature for ten minutes before rolling and stuffing for better handling.
How do I make these cookies crispy?
Bake the cookies for an additional two minutes if you prefer a crispier texture throughout the bite. Reducing the amount of brown sugar slightly will also favor a crunchier cookie outcome.
These Nutella stuffed chocolate cookies provide an incredible texture contrast that will satisfy any sweet tooth. By following the chilling and sealing techniques, you ensure professional-quality results every single time. Prepare a batch today to experience the perfect combination of molten hazelnut spread and deep, dark chocolate. Your kitchen will smell like a high-end bakery within minutes of placing them in the oven.
PrintNutella Stuffed Chocolate Cookies
Indulge in these decadent, chewy cocoa-based cookies that feature a surprise molten Nutella center. By chilling the Nutella before stuffing the rich, chocolate-chip-packed dough, you ensure a perfect, gooey experience in every bite. This modern American treat is ideal for gatherings or as a luxurious homemade dessert, offering a beautiful balance between the bitter notes of dark chocolate and the creamy sweetness of hazelnut spread.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 12
- Total Time: 42
- Yield: 12 cookies
- Category: Deserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Modern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp fine sea salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup Nutella
Instructions
Scoop twelve small dollops of Nutella onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least one hour until firm.
Cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate container, then gradually add to the wet ingredients.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Take a portion of dough, flatten it in your palm, place a frozen Nutella dollop in the center, and wrap the dough around it, rolling into a ball.
Arrange on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 minutes.
Allow to cool on the tray for at least 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Ensure the Nutella dollops are completely frozen before assembly to prevent leaking. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Use high-quality cocoa for the best flavor.