Nutella Thumbprint Cookies are like little hugs from the oven. Imagine sinking your teeth into a buttery cookie that melts in your mouth, revealing a luscious center of creamy Nutella. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake could lure even the most dedicated cookie hater into temptation.
It’s a classic tale of love at first bite! These cookies remind me of rainy afternoons spent baking with my grandma, her laughter filling the air as we tried (and failed) to keep the flour from flying everywhere. Perfect for any occasion, Nutella Thumbprint Cookies promise a delightful flavor explosion that will make you the star of every gathering.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Nutella Thumbprint Cookies are a breeze to whip up, even for novice bakers.
- Each bite delivers a rich chocolate-hazelnut experience that is simply irresistible.
- The beautiful thumbprint design gives them an elegant touch, making them perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
- Versatile enough to try with different fillings, these cookies can cater to all taste buds!
Ingredients for Nutella Thumbprint Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: About 2 cups of all-purpose flour creates the perfect base for these cookies’ chewy texture.
Baking Powder: Just a teaspoon helps give these cookies the lift they need.
Salt: A pinch enhances all those wonderful flavors hiding in your cookie dough.
Unsalted Butter: Using one cup of softened butter adds richness and flavor; make sure it’s at room temperature!
Granulated Sugar: A cup of sugar makes everything sweeter and adds that lovely crunch on the outside.
Brown Sugar: Half a cup brings moisture and depth to the cookie’s flavor profile.
Vanilla Extract: One tablespoon infuses each bite with warm, aromatic goodness.
Nutella: The star ingredient—about half a cup ensures gooey centers that are simply divine.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Nutella Thumbprint Cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring easy cleanup afterward because no one wants to battle sticky trays!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial; it ensures even distribution of leavening agents!
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In another large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy and pale—about three minutes should do it. Channel your inner rockstar and get ready for those sweet smells!
Step 4: Add Vanilla
Stir in the vanilla extract until combined. Take a moment to appreciate how delightful it smells; if only we could bottle that aroma!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until incorporated; overmixing leads to tough cookies—and nobody wants that!
Step 6: Form Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on your prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Use your thumb (or finger; I won’t judge) to create an indentation in each ball—this is where the Nutella will go!
Step 7: Fill with Nutella
Spoon about half a teaspoon of Nutella into each thumbprint depression. Feel free to be generous here; after all, chocolate makes everything better!
Step 8: Bake
Pop those beauties into your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. The anticipation will make you feel like a kid waiting for Christmas morning.
Once baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
These Nutella Thumbprint Cookies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored in an airtight container for later snacking (if they last that long!). Enjoy every gooey, chocolaty morsel!
You Must Know
- Nutella thumbprint cookies are the perfect combination of a soft cookie with a gooey chocolate center.
- They’re easy to make and even easier to devour!
- These delightful treats are perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in with a glass of milk.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms, whip up the cookie dough, scoop it onto a baking sheet, and make those adorable thumbprints. Bake until lightly golden, then add Nutella while they cool.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out Nutella for peanut butter or any favorite jam! Add crushed nuts or sprinkles on top for an extra crunch. This recipe is your canvas, so get creative!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to enjoy them warm again, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Nutella thumbprint cookies, chill your dough before baking; this helps them keep their shape.
- Avoid overbaking—remove them when they’re just golden around the edges for that soft center.
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
I once brought these cookies to a family gathering, and they were gone within minutes! My cousin even asked if I could make a batch every week—it was an ego boost I didn’t know I needed!
FAQs:
What are Nutella Thumbprint Cookies?
Nutella Thumbprint Cookies are delightful treats that combine a buttery cookie base with a rich, gooey center of Nutella. These cookies are incredibly easy to make and are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something sweet. The thumbprint technique creates a unique indentation in each cookie, allowing the Nutella to shine. With their irresistible flavor and simple preparation, they have become a favorite for many cookie lovers.
How do I store Nutella Thumbprint Cookies?
To keep your Nutella Thumbprint Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to five days when properly sealed. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.
Can I substitute ingredients in Nutella Thumbprint Cookies?
Absolutely! You can modify the recipe to fit dietary needs or preferences. For example, use gluten-free flour if you’re avoiding gluten. Coconut oil can replace butter for a dairy-free option. Additionally, you can swap Nutella with other nut butters or chocolate spreads if desired. Experimenting with different ingredients allows you to create unique flavors while maintaining the cookie’s basic structure.
What occasions are best for serving Nutella Thumbprint Cookies?
Nutella Thumbprint Cookies are versatile and suitable for various occasions! They make a fantastic addition to holiday gatherings, birthday parties, and bake sales. Their appealing appearance and delicious flavor also make them great gifts during festive seasons or as thoughtful treats for friends and family. Whether enjoyed at home or shared with loved ones, these cookies will surely brighten anyone’s day.
Conclusion for Nutella Thumbprint Cookies:
In summary, Nutella Thumbprint Cookies offer a delightful blend of buttery goodness and rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor that appeals to all ages. Their simple preparation makes these cookies accessible for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs. By storing them properly, you can enjoy these treats for days or even weeks after baking. Feel free to customize your recipe with different nut butters or flours to suit your dietary needs. Indulge in these scrumptious cookies whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up!
Nutella Thumbprint Cookies
Nutella Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend a buttery cookie base with a rich, gooey Nutella center. These cookies, with their elegant thumbprint design, are perfect for any occasion—whether at family gatherings or festive celebrations. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and irresistible chocolate-hazelnut flavor will leave everyone craving more. Easy to whip up, these cookies promise to be the star of your dessert table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Nutella
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- In another bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Mix in vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and place on baking sheets about two inches apart. Create an indentation in each ball with your thumb.
- Fill each indentation with approximately half a teaspoon of Nutella.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 107
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: - For added texture, try incorporating crushed nuts or sprinkles on top of the Nutella before baking. - You can substitute Nutella with peanut butter or your favorite jam for different flavor profiles.
