Irresistible Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies to Try

If you are searching for a dessert that combines melt-in-your-mouth softness with a luscious surprise inside, look no further than Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies. These delicate cookies are packed with a rich, gooey hazelnut spread that elevates every bite into a delightful experience. Soft, buttery, and dusted with powdered sugar (natural), they create a charming treat perfect for any occasion, from cozy afternoons to festive celebrations. Let me guide you through everything you need to know to bake these irresistible Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Buttery Texture: Each cookie melts in your mouth with a tender crumb that pairs beautifully with the smooth filling.
• Rich Gooey Center: The Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies come with a luscious hazelnut spread surprise inside that adds an indulgent twist.
• Easy to Make: The recipe uses simple pantry staples and straightforward steps that even beginners can follow with ease.
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrapped in a box or tin, these cookies make for a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
• Elegant Presentation: Lightly dusted with powdered sugar (natural), these cookies look just as good as they taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might look simple, but each plays a pivotal role in creating the perfect Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies. From enriching the dough’s tenderness to balancing sweetness and adding color, every item counts towards achieving the ideal texture and flavor.

• All-purpose Flour: The base of the dough, providing structure and a soft crumb.
• Powdered Sugar (natural): Adds sweetness and creates that signature snowball coating.
• Unsalted Butter (plant-based): Key for the rich, buttery flavor and tender texture.
• Hazelnut Spread: The star filling that lends richness and gooey indulgence.
• Vanilla Extract (natural): Enhances the overall flavor, bringing warmth and depth.
• Almond Flour: Adds a subtle nutty flavor and helps keep cookies soft.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
• Natural Gelling Agent: Provides just enough structure to hold the dough together without toughness.

Variations for Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies

Feel free to personalize this recipe to suit your mood, dietary preferences, or pantry stock. These Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies lend themselves beautifully to creative tweaks with minimal fuss.

• Chocolate-Dipped Version: Simply dip cooled cookies halfway into melted dark chocolate (plant-based) for extra decadence.
• Nut-Free Option: Replace hazelnut spread with a smooth sunflower seed butter for a delicious allergy-friendly alternative.
• Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom into the dough for a warm spice note.
• Fruit-Filled: Swap the hazelnut spread with your favorite fruity jam or preserve for a bright flavor contrast.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to keep these cookies accessible to everyone.

How to Make Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter (plant-based) with powdered sugar (natural) until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract (natural), then gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, almond flour, salt, and a natural gelling agent. Stir gently until a smooth, soft dough forms avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

Take a small portion of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place about a teaspoon of hazelnut spread in the center, then carefully wrap the dough around it, rolling it into a ball to ensure the filling is completely enclosed.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Place the cookie balls spaced evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the edges start to show a subtle golden hue while the centers remain soft.

Step 4: Dust and Cool

Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes before rolling them gently in powdered sugar (natural) to coat. This step gives them that signature snowball look and adds a delightful sweetness with each bite.

Pro Tips for Making Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies

• Chill the Dough: Let your dough rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to make shaping easier and improve texture.
• Use Quality Hazelnut Spread: A creamier spread makes the filling melt beautifully and adds richer flavor.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies just as the edges turn slightly golden to keep them soft and tender inside.
• Coating Tip: For a thicker sugar coating, roll the cookies twice in powdered sugar (natural) after baking and cooling a bit.
• Handle with Care: When stuffing, be gentle to avoid breaking the dough and risking leaks during baking.

How to Serve Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies

Garnishes

Besides the classic powdered sugar (natural), sprinkle cocoa powder or crushed toasted hazelnuts on top for an inviting finish that adds a bit of texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair the cookies with a cup of warm herbal tea or a glass of grape juice for a beautifully balanced treat that complements the sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies on a decorative plate lined with edible flower petals or serve them in vintage tins wrapped with ribbons to create an irresistible gift or party centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to preserve their softness and flavor. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to avoid condensation and sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies baked or unbaked. For baked cookies, place layers separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. For unbaked dough balls, freeze on a tray then transfer to a container.

Reheating

Warm frozen baked cookies gently in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes or until soft and the filling becomes slightly gooey again. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different filling besides hazelnut spread?

Absolutely! You can experiment with fruit jam, chocolate spread, or even a smooth nut butter to create different flavor profiles for your Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies.

Is it possible to make these cookies vegan?

Yes, by choosing plant-based butter and ensuring your hazelnut spread and powdered sugar (natural) do not contain animal products, you can make these cookies entirely vegan-friendly.

What makes the cookies soft rather than crunchy?

The combination of plant-based butter, almond flour, and gentle baking prevents the cookies from becoming too hard, keeping them delectably tender and soft.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking during baking?

Make sure to seal the dough completely around the hazelnut spread and avoid over-stuffing. Chilling the dough before baking also helps the cookies hold their shape better.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend will work well without compromising texture or taste.

Final Thoughts

Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies offer a sensational combination of soft buttery dough and a rich, gooey center that’s sure to steal the show whenever you share them. With their simple ingredients and inviting appearance, these cookies are a perfect treat to whip up any time you crave something sweet and special. Try this recipe and watch how quickly these little gems disappear from your kitchen you might just find your new favorite cookie!

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