Nutella Cookies Recipe: Soft, Chewy, and Loaded with Chocolate Hazelnut Flavor

Introduction

If you love chocolate and hazelnut flavors, these homemade Nutella cookies are the perfect treat. Made with the delicious taste of Nutella chocolate hazelnut spread, these cookies are rich, soft, chewy, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you need a quick dessert for your family, a sweet snack with coffee, or a homemade treat to share with friends, this easy Nutella cookies recipe is sure to become a favorite.

One of the best things about Nutella cookies is that they require simple ingredients and minimal preparation. You do not need complicated baking equipment or professional baking skills to make a delicious batch. With a few pantry staples, a bowl, and an oven, you can prepare irresistible chocolate hazelnut cookies at home.

This easy Nutella cookies recipe creates cookies with slightly crisp edges and soft centers. You can enjoy them plain, add chocolate chips for extra sweetness, or fill them with additional Nutella for an even richer dessert.

In this guide, you will discover everything you need to know about making homemade Nutella cookies, including the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, common mistakes to avoid, helpful baking tips, variations, nutritional information, and frequently asked questions.

History of Nutella Cookies

Nutella was introduced in Italy in 1964 by the Ferrero company, building on an earlier chocolate and hazelnut product developed after World War II. The combination of chocolate and hazelnuts became popular because it offered a delicious, affordable way to enjoy a sweet spread.

As Nutella gained popularity around the world, home bakers began incorporating it into a wide variety of desserts, including brownies, cakes, muffins, pastries, and cookies.

Nutella cookies became a favorite among chocolate lovers because the spread provides both chocolate flavor and a creamy hazelnut taste. It can also simplify baking by replacing some of the ingredients traditionally used to create a chocolate flavor.

Today, Nutella cookies are enjoyed in many countries and are especially popular with people looking for easy homemade desserts. Their rich flavor, simple preparation, and versatility make them suitable for holidays, parties, afternoon snacks, and everyday baking.

Ingredients for Nutella Cookies

The following ingredients make approximately 16 medium-sized cookies, depending on how large you shape them.

Main Ingredients

1 cup (280 g) Nutella chocolate hazelnut spread
1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
1 large egg, at room temperature
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (85 g) chocolate chips, optional

Optional Ingredients

2 tablespoons chopped hazelnuts
2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips for decoration
A small pinch of flaky sea salt
Extra Nutella for filling or topping

Ingredient Notes

Nutella: Use Nutella at room temperature so it mixes easily with the other ingredients. Different chocolate hazelnut spreads can have different sugar and fat contents, which may affect the final texture.

All-purpose flour: Measure your flour carefully. Too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly.

Egg: The egg helps bind the ingredients together and contributes to the cookies’ structure.

Baking soda: A small amount helps the cookies spread and develop a pleasant texture.

Vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the chocolate and hazelnut flavors.

Chocolate chips: These are optional, but they add extra chocolate flavor and delicious melted chocolate pockets.

Instructions: How to Make Nutella Cookies

Follow these simple steps to make soft and chewy Nutella cookies from scratch.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Make sure the oven has reached the correct temperature before baking. An oven that is too hot can cause the cookies to brown too quickly, while an oven that is too cool may affect their texture.

Step 2: Mix the Nutella and Egg

Place the Nutella in a large mixing bowl. Add the egg and vanilla extract.

Whisk or stir the ingredients until the mixture becomes smooth and evenly combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure that all the ingredients are incorporated.

The mixture should look glossy and thick.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the Nutella mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until a soft cookie dough forms.

Avoid mixing the dough longer than necessary. Overmixing can make cookies firmer than desired.

If you are using chocolate chips or chopped hazelnuts, fold them into the dough at this stage.

Step 4: Chill the Dough if Necessary

If the dough feels sticky or too soft to shape, cover the bowl and refrigerate it for 20 to 30 minutes.

Chilling is particularly helpful in warm kitchens because it firms up the fats in the dough and makes the cookies easier to handle.

If the dough is already firm enough to roll into balls, you can proceed directly to the next step.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Scoop approximately 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie.

Roll each portion gently between your hands to form a ball. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving approximately 2 inches between them to allow room for spreading.

For a bakery-style appearance, press a few extra chocolate chips into the tops of the dough balls.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 8 to 11 minutes.

The edges should look set while the centers remain slightly soft. Do not wait until the cookies become completely firm in the oven, because they will continue cooking briefly from the residual heat after removal.

Baking time depends on the size of the cookies and the characteristics of your oven.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to rest for about 5 minutes.

Transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely. Freshly baked Nutella cookies are delicate when hot but become firmer as they cool.

If desired, sprinkle a tiny amount of flaky sea salt over the cookies while they are still slightly warm.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your homemade Nutella cookies with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or your favorite tea.

For an extra-special dessert, sandwich a small amount of Nutella between two completely cooled cookies or serve them alongside vanilla ice cream.

Enjoy the rich chocolate hazelnut flavor in every bite!

Common Mistakes When Making Nutella Cookies

Even a simple cookie recipe can produce disappointing results if a few important details are overlooked. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Adding Too Much Flour

Too much flour can make cookies dry, dense, and crumbly.

Measure flour using a kitchen scale whenever possible. If using measuring cups, spoon the flour into the cup and level it rather than packing it down.

2. Overbaking the Cookies

Nutella cookies can become dry if left in the oven too long.

Remove them when the edges are set but the centers still appear slightly soft. Remember that the cookies continue to firm up as they cool.

3. Skipping the Chilling Step When Needed

Warm dough can spread excessively, especially in a hot kitchen.

If the dough is sticky or difficult to shape, refrigerate it for 20 to 30 minutes before baking.

4. Using Cold Ingredients

Very cold eggs can make mixing more difficult. Allow the egg to come to room temperature before preparing the dough.

5. Placing Cookies Too Close Together

Cookies need space to spread during baking. Leave approximately 2 inches between dough balls to prevent them from merging.

6. Moving Cookies Too Soon

Freshly baked cookies are fragile. Allow them to rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

7. Assuming Every Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Behaves the Same

Different brands have different proportions of sugar, oil, and hazelnuts. Substituting another spread may change how much the dough spreads or how sweet the cookies taste.

For the most predictable results, use the specified amount of Nutella and avoid changing several ingredients at once.

Tips for the Best Nutella Cookies

Use these helpful tips to make your cookies taste delicious and look beautiful every time.

Measure Ingredients Accurately

Accurate measurements help create consistent results. Weighing flour and Nutella is particularly useful because small differences can change the texture.

Use Parchment Paper

Parchment paper prevents sticking and helps the cookies bake evenly. It also makes cleanup easier.

Avoid Overmixing

Once the flour has been incorporated, stop mixing. Gentle mixing helps prevent an unnecessarily tough texture.

Try to keep every portion approximately the same size. Uniform cookies bake more evenly, so you are less likely to end up with some overbaked and others underbaked.

Watch the Cookies Near the End

Start checking the cookies at around 8 minutes. Depending on your oven, they may need a little more time, but smaller cookies can bake quickly.

Add Extra Chocolate Chips

Pressing a few chocolate chips into the tops before baking creates an attractive bakery-style finish.

Let Them Cool Properly

The cookies may seem too soft when they first come out of the oven. Give them time to set before deciding whether they need more baking.

Store Them Correctly

Once completely cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for approximately 3 to 4 days for the best quality.

Variations of Nutella Cookies

One of the best features of this recipe is how easily you can customize it. Try these variations to create different flavors and textures.

1. Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies

Add 1/2 cup of semisweet or milk chocolate chips to the dough. The extra chocolate creates delicious melted pockets and makes the cookies even more indulgent.

2. Nutella-Stuffed Cookies

For a gooey center, place small teaspoon-sized portions of Nutella on a parchment-lined plate and freeze them until firm.

Flatten a portion of cookie dough, place a frozen Nutella portion in the center, and wrap the dough around it. Seal the edges carefully before baking.

The filling may remain soft and creamy, although the final texture depends on baking time and how well the dough seals the center.

3. Nutella Hazelnut Cookies

Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped toasted hazelnuts to the dough. They provide a pleasant crunch that complements the chocolate hazelnut spread.

4. Double Chocolate Nutella Cookies

Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients. Because cocoa powder absorbs moisture, the dough may become drier. Adjust carefully with a small amount of additional Nutella if needed.

5. Nutella Sea Salt Cookies

Sprinkle a little flaky sea salt over the cookies before serving. The contrast between sweet chocolate and salt creates a more balanced flavor.

6. Nutella Sandwich Cookies

Bake the cookies, allow them to cool completely, and spread a thin layer of Nutella on the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie to create a delicious sandwich.

7. Mini Nutella Cookies

Use approximately 1 teaspoon of dough per cookie and reduce the baking time. Begin checking them after 6 to 8 minutes.

Mini cookies are perfect for parties, dessert platters, lunchboxes, and sharing with friends.

8. Gluten-Free Nutella Cookies

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking. Results vary depending on the blend, so check the dough consistency and follow the flour manufacturer’s recommendations.

Also verify that all ingredients, including the chocolate hazelnut spread and any add-ins, meet your dietary requirements.

Nutritional Information

Nutella cookies are a sweet treat best enjoyed in moderation. Their nutritional content depends on the size of each cookie, the exact ingredients used, and whether optional chocolate chips or fillings are added.

The following figures are rough estimates for one cookie when the recipe makes approximately 16 cookies.

Nutrient	Estimated Amount per Cookie
Calories	120–150 kcal
Carbohydrates	15–20 g
Protein	2–3 g
Fat	6–8 g
Saturated Fat	2–3 g
Sugar	10–14 g
Fiber	1 g
Sodium	30–70 mg

These values are estimates rather than laboratory-tested nutrition facts. For more accurate information, calculate the nutrition using the exact products and quantities you use.

Are Nutella Cookies Healthy?

Nutella cookies contain carbohydrates and fats that provide energy, but they also contain added sugar. They are best treated as an occasional dessert rather than a replacement for nutrient-dense foods.

To adjust the recipe, you can make smaller cookies, reduce optional chocolate chips, or enjoy one cookie with fruit and an unsweetened drink.

Keep in mind that Nutella contains hazelnuts and may be unsuitable for people with hazelnut allergies. Always check ingredient labels and avoid cross-contact when preparing food for someone with a food allergy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nutella Cookies

1. Can I Make Nutella Cookies With Only Three Ingredients?

Yes. A simple version can be made using Nutella, an egg, and all-purpose flour. However, the texture may differ from this recipe because it does not include baking soda, vanilla, or salt.

For the best balance of flavor and texture, follow the full ingredient list.

2. Why Are My Nutella Cookies Flat?

Cookies may spread too much if the dough is too warm, the ingredients are incorrectly measured, or the baking sheet is still hot from a previous batch.

Chill sticky dough for 20 to 30 minutes, measure carefully, and use a cool baking sheet for each batch.

3. How Do I Keep Nutella Cookies Soft?

Avoid overbaking the cookies. Remove them when their edges are set and their centers are still slightly soft.

Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to help maintain their texture.

Yes. You can prepare the dough, cover it, and refrigerate it before baking.

For the best results, use refrigerated dough within approximately 24 to 48 hours. If it becomes very firm, let it soften slightly before shaping.

Yes. Shape the dough into balls and freeze them on a tray until firm. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.

For best quality, use the frozen dough within about 2 to 3 months. Bake from frozen, allowing additional baking time and checking for doneness.

6. How Should I Store Baked Nutella Cookies?

Store completely cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days.

For longer storage, freeze them in a suitable airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

7. Can I Make Nutella Cookies Without Baking Soda?

Yes, but the cookies may have a slightly different texture and spread. Baking soda helps with the cookie structure and browning, so removing it may change the final result.

8. Can I Use Another Chocolate Hazelnut Spread?

Yes. Another chocolate hazelnut spread can work, but sweetness, oil content, and consistency may vary. The finished cookies might spread more or less than expected.

9. How Can I Tell When Nutella Cookies Are Done?

Look for set edges and centers that still appear slightly soft. For medium-sized cookies, begin checking around 8 minutes and adjust according to your oven.

The cookies will continue to set as they cool.

10. Can I Make Nutella Cookies Without Chocolate Chips?

Absolutely. Chocolate chips are optional, and the cookies will still have plenty of chocolate hazelnut flavor from the Nutella.

11. Are Nutella Cookies Suitable for Vegetarians?

This recipe generally uses ingredients commonly suitable for vegetarians, but product formulations vary. Check the ingredient labels to confirm that all ingredients meet your dietary preferences.

12. Can I Make Nutella Cookies Without an Electric Mixer?

Yes. A mixing bowl, whisk, and spatula are enough for this recipe. Because the dough is relatively simple, an electric mixer is not necessary.

Conclusion

These easy homemade Nutella cookies are a delicious choice for anyone who loves chocolate and hazelnut desserts. With a handful of simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and a short baking time, you can prepare soft, chewy cookies without complicated techniques.

The key to success is measuring your ingredients accurately, avoiding overmixing, chilling the dough when necessary, and removing the cookies from the oven while their centers are still slightly soft.

You can also customize the recipe with chocolate chips, chopped hazelnuts, a creamy Nutella filling, or a sprinkle of sea salt to create your own favorite version.

Whether you are baking for your family, preparing a party dessert, or simply satisfying a chocolate craving, this Nutella cookies recipe is an easy and satisfying treat worth trying.

Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and enjoy freshly baked chocolate hazelnut cookies at home. If you try this recipe, save it for your next baking day and share it with other Nutella lovers!