Nutella Thumbprint Cookie Recipe Easy and Delicious Treats

Originally posted on April 8, 2022 @ 2:05 pm

There’s something irresistibly charming about thumbprint cookies, and when you fill them with creamy Nutella, they become a decadent treat that’s hard to resist. These Nutella Thumbprint Cookies blend a buttery, tender cookie base with the rich, hazelnut-chocolate flavor of Nutella, creating a perfect bite-sized indulgence.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re new to baking.

In this post, I’ll guide you through every step to create these delightful cookies, from the ingredients you’ll need to handy tips for perfect results. Ready to bake some magic?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nutella Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful fusion of buttery cookie dough and the creamy, nutty goodness of Nutella. The cookie dough is soft and tender, providing a perfect contrast to the smooth filling.

These cookies are bite-sized, making them perfect for sharing or gifting, and they hold their shape beautifully during baking.

Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is suitable for bakers of all skill levels.

Plus, they store well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Finally, these cookies offer a nostalgic twist on the classic thumbprint cookie, elevating it with the rich, irresistible flavor of Nutella. They’re sure to become an instant favorite in your cookie repertoire!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup Nutella (or your favorite hazelnut spread)
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Teaspoon or small cookie scoop
• Fork or small spoon (for making the thumbprint indentations)
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is key for tender cookies.
3. Add vanilla extract: Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
5. Mix dry ingredients into wet: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the cookies tender.
6. Shape the dough: Using a teaspoon or small cookie scoop, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Create thumbprints: Use your thumb, a fork handle, or the back of a small spoon to gently press into the center of each cookie ball, making an indentation. Be careful not to press all the way through.
8. Fill with Nutella: Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of Nutella into each indentation. It’s easier to do this if the Nutella is slightly warmed so it’s more spreadable.
9. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly soft but will firm as they cool.
10. Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
11. Optional finishing touch: Once cooled, you may dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant look.

Tips & Variations

Tip: If your Nutella is too thick to spoon easily, warm it slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will make filling the cookies much easier.

Substitution ideas: You can swap the Nutella for other fillings like peanut butter, jam, or even dulce de leche for different flavor profiles.

Make them gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour, but be sure to check the blend includes xanthan gum for structure.

Decorate: For a festive touch, try dipping half of each cookie in melted chocolate or sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top of the Nutella filling before it sets.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Nutella Thumbprint Cookies are perfect alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. Their rich, sweet flavor balances beautifully with the bitterness of black coffee or the mildness of milk tea.

For an indulgent dessert platter, serve these cookies with fresh berries and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a wonderful gift when packaged in decorative tins or boxes – ideal for holidays or birthdays.

Looking to add a festive touch? Arrange the cookies on a plate and drizzle with melted white chocolate or sprinkle with crushed festive candies.

Conclusion

Nutella Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that brings a touch of elegance and indulgence to any occasion. Their buttery texture paired with a luscious Nutella center makes them a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself.

The recipe’s simplicity means you can whip up a batch in no time, even if you’re new to baking.

These cookies are versatile and lend themselves well to customization, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings or toppings. They also keep well, making them a great option for prepping ahead of time.

I hope this recipe inspires you to create something delicious in your kitchen today!

For more delicious cookie recipes, check out Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies, Peanut Butter Blossoms, and Oatmeal Raisin Cookies to expand your baking repertoire.

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