Introduction to Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
Baking is often associated with feelings of warmth and nostalgia, and what better way to evoke those sentiments than with Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies? This delightful combination merges the rich, creamy goodness of Nutella with the classic appeal of chocolate chip cookies to create an indulgent treat that comforts the soul.
Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as these cookies bake to perfection — can you already taste that satisfying blend of gooey chocolate and hazelnut? It’s a match made in heaven!
Why Nutella and Chocolate Chip Cookies are the Ultimate Comfort Food?
Nutella has a unique way of elevating your everyday chocolate chip cookie experience. Not only does it add an extra layer of flavor, but it also brings a delightful creaminess that balances beautifully with the crunchy cookie edges. When combined with semi-sweet chocolate chips, the result is a cookie that has chewy edges and soft centers, perfect for enjoying with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee.
Moreover, studies show that baked treats can evoke happy memories and reduce stress, making these cookies not just delicious, but also a mood booster! Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long day, Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies are sure to bring joy, one bite at a time.
So, let’s dive into this incredible recipe!
Ingredients for Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
Essential ingredients for a cookie masterpiece
Creating the perfect Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies starts with the right essential ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup, softened to a creamy texture.
- Brown and granulated sugars: This combination of ¾ cup light brown sugar and ½ cup granulated sugar gives a delightful sweetness and chewiness.
- Eggs: 1 large egg plus an additional egg yolk, both at room temperature, to add richness.
- Nutella: ½ cup, divided, to incorporate that irresistible hazelnut flavor.
- All-purpose flour: 2 and ⅓ cups, the backbone of your cookies.
- Baking soda and cornstarch: These leavening agents ensure your cookies rise perfectly without being overly thick.
Optional items to enhance flavor
To take your Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies to the next level, consider adding some optional ingredients:
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon for a depth of flavor.
- Sea salt: Just a sprinkle on top to balance sweetness and add that gourmet touch.
- Chocolate chips: 1 and ¼ cups semi-sweet chips, but feel free to mix in dark or milk chocolate for variety.
For more tips on achieving the perfect texture and flavor, check out Sally's Baking Addiction for expert advice!
Preparing Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
Baking Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies is an experience filled with warmth and delicious anticipation. This easy-to-follow guide will walk you through each step, ensuring a delightful batch of cookies that are bursting with flavor.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving in, it's essential to gather all your ingredients to make the process smooth. Here’s what you’ll need:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup Nutella, divided
- 2 and ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 and ¼ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 and ¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
- Sea salt, for finishing
Don’t forget to check out guides on room temperature ingredients to ensure your butter is perfectly soft!
Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a handheld or stand mixer to beat the softened butter for about a minute on medium speed until smooth. Next, add in the light brown sugar and granulated sugar. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color—approximately 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your cookies!
Incorporate Eggs and Nutella
Once the butter and sugars are well combined, it's time to mix in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Beat these on high speed until fully incorporated. To add that rich, gooey taste, mix in ¼ cup of Nutella until combined.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This helps ensure that your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough, contributing to that delicious chewiness!
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until combined. Be careful not to overmix! Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for sweetness, then add the remaining Nutella. The aim is to have visible streaks of Nutella throughout the dough—this adds delightful pockets of flavor.
Form the Cookie Dough
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into balls. The warmth of your hands will help the dough come together nicely. Arrange the dough balls about 3 inches apart on prepared baking sheets to allow for spreading.
Bake the Cookies to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and bake the cookies for about 10 minutes. They should be slightly golden brown around the edges but remain soft in the center. Consider rotating your baking sheets halfway through the baking time for an even bake. When they come out, you can gently press down on them with the back of a spoon if they’re too puffy.
Let your Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. For the finishing touch, press a few additional chocolate chips and a sprinkle of sea salt on top while they’re still warm. Enjoy your baking adventure and the wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen!
Variations on Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
Nutella Stuffed Cookies
If you're truly in love with Nutella, why not take it to the next level? For Nutella stuffed cookies, simply scoop out a small ball of dough, make a well in the center, and add a dollop of Nutella before covering it with more dough. These indulgent treats will melt in your mouth, leaving you wanting more after every bite.
Nutella and Hazelnut Cookies
For a delightful twist, try making Nutella and hazelnut cookies. Incorporate finely chopped hazelnuts into your cookie dough to enhance the rich flavor of Nutella. This combination adds a delightful crunch and a nutty aroma that takes these cookies to new heights. Enjoy with a cup of coffee for the perfect afternoon treat!
By exploring these delicious variations, you can enjoy Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies in fun and exciting ways. Happy baking!
Baking notes for Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
Tips for achieving that perfect chewiness
To score that delightful chewiness with your Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies, consider these tips:
- Underbake slightly: Pull them from the oven when they're just slightly golden. They'll continue to set while cooling.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This promotes even mixing and a uniform texture.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch: It adds tenderness and keeps them soft longer.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Beware of these pitfalls to ensure cookie success:
- Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined.
- Not chilling the dough: If possible, chill for 30 minutes; it helps with flavor and prevents spreading.
- Using cold or hard Nutella: Make sure it’s stirred and at room temperature for better incorporation.
For more cookie tips, check out Sally's Baking Addiction. Happy baking!
Serving suggestions for Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
Pairing cookies with drinks
When indulging in Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies, the right drink can elevate the experience. Pair these delicious treats with a cold glass of milk to enhance the rich flavors. If you're feeling adventurous, try serving them with coffee or iced coffee, where the warm, nutty notes of Nutella beautifully contrast with the boldness of the brew. For a lighter option, a simple herbal tea can provide a refreshing balance to the sweetness, making all the flavors pop.
Ideal occasions for serving cookies
Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for just about any occasion! They shine at:
- Casual Gatherings: Whether it's a game night with friends or a family barbecue, these cookies will be a hit.
- Celebrations: Birthdays, holidays, or special milestones—everyone loves a warm, gooey cookie.
- Lunchbox Treats: Surprise your loved ones with these delightful cookies in their lunchboxes for a cheerful midday snack.
No matter the occasion, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and satisfy cravings! For more ideas on pairing desserts with beverages, check out this helpful guide on Serious Eats.
Tips for Making Perfect Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
Key Techniques for Success
To achieve the ultimate Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies, consider these simple techniques:
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, egg, and egg yolk are at room temperature. This helps them blend seamlessly for a perfect dough texture.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until incorporated. This keeps your cookies soft and chewy rather than tough.
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Nutella Handling: Always stir your Nutella well before scooping. This prevents any oily residue from causing the cookies to spread too much while baking.
Tools That Can Make Your Baking Easier
Using the right tools can elevate your baking experience:
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Electric Mixer: A stand or handheld mixer makes combining ingredients quicker and easier.
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Silicone Baking Mats or Parchment Paper: These prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
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Cooling Rack: Essential for letting your cookies cool properly, keeping them from getting soggy.
For more baking tips, check out King Arthur Baking for detailed guides and expert advice.
Time details for Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
Preparation time
Preparing these delicious Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies takes about 15 minutes. You’ll want to gather your ingredients and tools beforehand to make this process smooth and enjoyable.
Baking time
The actual baking takes about 10 minutes per batch. Make sure to keep an eye on them, as they’ll be soft in the center when they come out of the oven.
Total time
From start to finish, expect around 45 minutes to create these scrumptious cookies. That’s just enough time to get your kitchen smelling amazing and satisfy that sweet tooth!
For more baking tips and tricks, check out popular resources like King Arthur Baking for in-depth articles on perfecting cookie recipes. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information for Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
When you indulge in Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies, understanding the nutritional aspects can help you enjoy every bite more mindfully. Here’s a snapshot of the essentials you need to know:
Calories
Each cookie packs around 150 calories, making it a delightful treat without the guilt.
Protein
With about 2 grams of protein per cookie, these cookies offer a small boost alongside the rich flavors.
Sugar Content
Your sweet tooth will appreciate the 10 grams of sugar in each cookie, perfectly balancing the chocolatey goodness and Nutella's creamy delight.
Enjoy your baking, and remember to savor the delicious results! For more details on healthful baking, check out Healthline's nutritional information guide for deeper insights.
FAQs about Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
Can I use alternatives to Nutella?
Absolutely! If you're looking for a twist, you can substitute Nutella with other chocolate hazelnut spreads, peanut butter, or almond butter, though the flavor profile will differ. For a nut-free option, try a chocolate spread made from sunflower seeds. Just remember that any changes may slightly affect the taste and texture of your Nutella chocolate chip cookies.
How should I store my cookies for freshness?
To keep your cookies as fresh as possible, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll maintain their deliciousness for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Just thaw and enjoy those yummy bites whenever you crave them!
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you need an egg replacement, several options work well! You might use ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a mashed banana as a substitute. Flaxseed meal is another great one; mix one tablespoon with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes before adding it to your Nutella chocolate chip cookies dough.
Conclusion on Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
In conclusion, Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies are the ultimate sweet treat for any occasion. Combining chewy edges with soft centers and a hint of sea salt, each bite is heavenly. Whether you're sharing with friends or indulging solo, these cookies are bound to impress and satisfy your chocolate cravings!
Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
Equipment
- handheld mixer
- Stand Mixer
- baking sheets
- parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup light brown sugar packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup Nutella divided
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour spooned & leveled
- 1 ¼ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
Mix-Ins
- 1 ¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips divided
- sea salt to taste
Instructions
Baking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
- In a large bowl using a handheld mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter for 1 minute on medium speed until completely smooth and creamy. Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar and beat on medium high speed until fluffy and light in color. Beat in egg, egg yolk, and vanilla on high speed until combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Beat in ¼ cup (74g) of Nutella until combined.
- Whisk the flour, cornstarch, baking soda and salt together in a large bowl. On low speed, slowly mix into the wet ingredients until combined. Add 1 cup (180g) of chocolate chips and mix on low for about 5-10 seconds until evenly disbursed. Turn the mixer off and add the remaining Nutella. Beat for 5-10 seconds so the Nutella streaks through the cookie dough and is not fully mixed. Dough will be a little crumbly, that is OK.
- Scoop and roll balls of dough, about 1 Tablespoon of dough each, into balls. The warmth of your hands will help them come together. Arrange 3 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the cookies for 10 minutes or until slightly golden brown around the edges. My oven has hot spots and yours may too—be sure to rotate the pan once during bake time. The baked cookies will look extremely soft in the centers when you remove them from the oven.
- Cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet. During this time, if the cookies are too puffy, try gently pressing down on them with the back of a spoon. They will slightly deflate as you let them cool. As the cookies cool, grab the remaining ¼ cup of chocolate chips. Gently press a few chocolate chips into the tops of the slightly warm cookies and finish each with a sprinkle with sea salt. Transfer cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Cookies stay fresh covered at room temperature for up to 1 week.
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