There’s something truly delightful about the first bite of a cookie that reveals a hidden treasure, and these Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies are the epitome of that experience. Picture this: the light, buttery exterior gives way to a rich, gooey center of chocolate hazelnut spread, creating a moment that feels indulgent yet utterly comforting.
I found my inspiration for these cookies during a cozy afternoon spent reminiscing about childhood treats. As I sifted through my pantry, a jar of Nutella caught my eye, sparking the perfect idea to elevate my holiday baking game. These little snowballs are not just a visual delight, rolling in powdered sugar like fresh snow; they’re also incredibly easy to whip up!
Ideal for cookie swaps, festive gatherings, or simply an afternoon treat at home, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that impresses without fuss. Join me as we turn simple, wholesome ingredients into a mouthwatering treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why love Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies?
Indulgent Surprise: The moment you bite into these cookies, prepare for a delightful explosion of creamy Nutella that takes your taste buds on a blissful journey.
Easy to Make: With just 20 minutes of prep, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels, encouraging even the busiest home chefs to indulge in sweet creation.
Festive Appeal: Coated in powdered sugar, their appearance is as enchanting as their flavor, making them ideal for holiday gatherings or any special occasion.
Versatile Treat: Whether paired with coffee or enjoyed as an after-school snack, these cookies suit any moment and satisfy all cravings.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the whole family in the rolling and stuffing process—baking becomes a delightful bonding activity!
Experience the joy of creating these delicious Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies and see why they’ll be a favorite in your home.
Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted butter – 1 cup, softened to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
• Powdered sugar – 1/2 cup, adding sweetness and a melting quality to the cookie.
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
• All-purpose flour – 2 cups, providing the structure and base for your delightful snowballs.
• Salt – 1/4 teaspoon, balancing the sweetness for a more rounded taste.
For the Filling
• Nutella – 1/2 cup, the rich, gooey surprise at the center that makes these cookies truly special!
For Rolling
• Powdered sugar – 1/2 cup, for rolling the cookies to give them that charming snowball appearance.
How to Make Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). This step ensures the perfect baking temperature for those delightful cookies waiting to be created!
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Cream together the unsalted butter and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat them together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
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Add the vanilla extract. Mix well until it is thoroughly combined with the butter and sugar mixture, infusing a sweet aroma into your dough.
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Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt into the bowl. Stir until the dough comes together; it should be soft yet not sticky.
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Shape the dough: Take about a tablespoon of the dough in your hand and flatten it into a disc. Create a little pocket by gently pressing it down.
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Stuff with Nutella: Place a teaspoon of Nutella in the center of your disc. Carefully wrap the dough around the Nutella, rolling it into a ball shape—it’s like a little treasure hidden inside!
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Arrange the cookie balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure they have some space in between to allow room for spreading while baking.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. They should be set but not browned—look for a hint of a light golden edge!
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Cool slightly on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes. Then, while they are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar to achieve that delightful, snowy finish. Complete cooling before serving.
Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra layer of indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies
Feel free to explore these exciting twists to make this recipe your own!
- Nut-Free: Substitute Nutella with sun butter or almond butter for a nut-free option while keeping the creamy center intact.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free treat the whole family can enjoy!
- Cocoa-Powder Delight: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey twist that enhances the flavor and richness of these cookies.
- Minty Surprise: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for a refreshing mint flavor that pairs perfectly with the Nutella.
- Spiced Joy: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor, making these cookies perfect for cold days.
- Reduced Sugar: Cut down the powdered sugar in the dough by half and roll in coconut flakes instead for a less sweet, tropical version.
- Extra Crunch: Fold in 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts, like hazelnuts or walnuts, into the dough for a delightful texture contrast with each bite.
- Cookie Sandwiches: Make larger cookies and add a spoonful of Nutella between two cookies for a decadent sandwich that will WOW everyone!
With these variations, you can tailor your Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies to match your taste and dietary needs while keeping the heart of this delightful treat!
What to Serve with Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies?
Indulge in these delightful cookies and explore the perfect pairings that turn a simple treat into a memorable feast.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy warmth of hot chocolate harmonizes beautifully with the nutty sweetness, creating a cozy tasting experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream balances the richness of the cookies, providing a cool contrast to their gooey center.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing tartness, complementing the sweetness in every bite.
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Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea enhance the flavors perfectly, offering a warm, comforting drink to enjoy alongside your cookies.
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Milk: A classic pairing—cold, creamy milk not only soothes the richness of the Nutella but also brings back childhood nostalgia.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your cookies by drizzling melted chocolate on top for an extra touch of decadence that’s sure to impress.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet treats complement the chocolate hazelnut flavors, adding a delightful texture to your dessert platter.
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Honey Almond Tea: The subtly sweet and nutty notes of this tea make for a comforting and harmonious pairing with the snowball cookies.
How to Store and Freeze Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and delicious for your snack cravings!
Fridge: If you prefer longer preservation, place them in the fridge where they can last up to a week. Make sure they’re in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight or warm them gently in the oven.
Reheating: Warm up the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, ensuring the Nutella center remains gooey!
Make Ahead Options
These Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies are a dream come true for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow steps 1-4, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their delightful texture, avoid refrigerating the Nutella filling separately; instead, stuff the cookies right before baking. When you’re ready to bake, take the chilled dough out, shape the cookies as instructed, and pop them in the oven! You’ll create these delicious treats with minimal effort at the last moment, making afternoon snack time or holiday gatherings so much easier.
Expert Tips for Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Make sure your unsalted butter is truly softened, not melted, for a light and fluffy texture in your cookie dough.
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Nutella Portioning: Use a teaspoon to measure out the Nutella; too much can make sealing the dough difficult, resulting in a messy surprise!
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Dough Consistency: If your dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s easier to handle and shape.
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Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be set yet pale. Overbaking will dry them out, losing that delightful gooey center.
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Post-Baking Roll: Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar right after baking for a perfect snowy coating that sticks beautifully!
Embrace these tips, and you’ll ensure your Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies are a hit every time!
Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses pantry staples like flour and sugar, make sure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture. Fresh Nutella is key too; if it’s been sitting open for a while, check for any separation or changes in texture.
How should I store Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies?
Very good question! Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months, preserving that delightful flavor.
Can I freeze Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. This method ensures they don’t stick together. To enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge or warm them gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
What should I do if the cookie dough is too sticky or crumbly?
If your dough feels too sticky, add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Conversely, if it’s too crumbly, a splash of milk or an extra dollop of softened butter could help bring it together. Don’t lose hope; just a little tweaking can save the day!
Are Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Not at all! Since Nutella contains hazelnuts, these cookies aren’t suitable for those with nut allergies. If you’re looking for a nut-free alternative, consider using chocolate chips or a nut-free chocolate spread to replace Nutella, ensuring a similar delightful experience without the health risks!
Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies: A Decadent Winter Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Cream together the unsalted butter and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until thoroughly combined.
- Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt into the bowl. Stir until the dough comes together.
- Take about a tablespoon of dough and flatten it into a disc.
- Stuff with a teaspoon of Nutella in the center of the disc and wrap the dough around it, rolling it into a ball.
- Arrange the cookie balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space in between.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes.
- Cool slightly on the baking sheet, then roll in powdered sugar while still warm.