Chocolate Filled Cookies

Discover the ultimate chocolate-filled cookies with a creamy Nutella center and a chewy, soft cookie dough exterior. This indulgent treat combines the rich flavor of Nutella with the classic appeal of chocolate chip cookies for a dessert that’s both easy to make and impossible to resist. Perfect for chocolate lovers, these gooey chocolate cookies are an excellent choice for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for the holidays, or simply craving a sweet snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
• 12 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled to room temperature
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cup + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 1/8 cup mini chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate bar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chocolate Filling:

• Scoop teaspoon-sized dollops of chocolate hazelnut spread (Nutella) onto a parchment-lined tray.
• Freeze for 20-30 minutes, until the chocolate filling is firm and solid.

1. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk vigorously for about 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and combined.
• Add the egg and vanilla extract, whisking until fully incorporated.

1. Add Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until just combined.
• Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar.

1. Chill the Dough:

• Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up slightly.

1. Stuff the Cookies:

• Scoop 2-tablespoon-sized portions of dough. Flatten each portion slightly, add a piece of the frozen Nutella filling, and seal the dough around the chocolate. Roll the dough into a ball.

1. Freeze the Stuffed Cookie Dough:

• Place the cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 1-2 hours until firm and solid.

1. Bake:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Bake the chilled cookie dough balls for 10-12 minutes, spaced about 2 inches apart, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is puffed but slightly underbaked.
• Let the cookies cool on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes before removing them from the tray.

1. Store:

• Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
• Unbaked filled cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container or freezer bag.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

These chocolate-filled cookies combine the rich, creamy texture of Nutella with soft, chewy cookie dough and melty chocolate chips. Perfectly balanced in sweetness, they offer a decadent treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a Nutella fan or simply love indulgent cookies, these gooey, chocolate-filled delights are sure to become your new favorite.

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Tips, Variations, and Substitutions:

• Nutella Substitution: If you prefer a different chocolate spread, you can substitute Nutella with any chocolate-hazelnut spread or even peanut butter for a different flavor twist.
• Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chilling steps for both the filling and dough; this helps the cookies hold their shape and ensures the Nutella stays inside while baking.
• Freezing Dough: You can freeze the unbaked dough balls for later use. Just bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the bake time.

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FAQs:

• Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
  Yes! Feel free to use milk chocolate chips or chopped milk chocolate for a sweeter, less intense flavor.
• Why do I need to chill the dough and filling?
  Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking and ensures the Nutella filling remains inside the cookie rather than melting out.
• Can I make the dough in advance?
  Yes! Prepare the dough ahead of time, store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.

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Serving Suggestions:

These chocolate-filled cookies are perfect for any occasion. Serve them with a glass of cold milk, a hot cup of coffee, or alongside other baked treats at a party or gathering. They make a great gift for friends or family or a special treat to enjoy during a cozy evening at home.

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More Recipe Ideas:

If you’re a fan of chocolate and Nutella, try making Nutella-stuffed brownies, or check out other chocolate chip cookie variations for more delicious baked goods ideas.