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There is something utterly magical about these Nutella Stuffed Snowball Cookies Recipe that makes them an instant favorite in any kitchen. Imagine tender, buttery cookies that literally melt in your mouth, hiding a luscious, gooey Nutella center, all dusted generously with snowy powdered sugar. Each bite is a perfect balance of crunchy pecans, rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor, and delicate sweetness that will have you reaching for one after another. If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, this recipe is exactly what your cookie jar has been waiting for.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Nutella Stuffed Snowball Cookies Recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of carefully selected ingredients come together to create an irresistible flavor and texture symphony. Each element plays a vital role: the rich butter for tenderness, pecans for crunch, and powdered sugar to add that signature snowy finish.
- Nutella (¼-½ cup): The star of the show, this creamy hazelnut spread brings gooey, chocolaty goodness to the cookie center.
- Very finely chopped pecans (¾ cup): Adds a subtle crunch and nutty depth without overpowering the delicate cookie dough.
- Unsalted butter (8½ tablespoons, room temp): Ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb and rich flavor.
- Powdered sugar (1½ cups, divided): Gives the dough sweetness and that snowy coating that makes these cookies so visually enchanting.
- Pure vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Brings warmth and enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- Kosher salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and brightens the overall taste.
- All-purpose flour (1¼ cups): Provides structure for these delicate snowball cookies without making them heavy.
How to Make Nutella Stuffed Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets
Start by lining two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Spritz a third baking sheet with nonstick spray—this one is for freezing your Nutella balls, so they don’t stick or lose shape.
Step 2: Freeze the Nutella Centers
Divide your Nutella into tiny half-teaspoon balls, placing them spaced apart on the sprayed baking sheet. Freezing these in advance helps keep the Nutella perfectly encased in cookie dough without melting during baking. Pop them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes while you prep the rest.
Step 3: Finely Chop the Pecans
Pulse pecans in a food processor until finely chopped but not oily. If you don’t have a processor, a sturdy resealable bag and a rolling pin or mallet work like a charm. These finely ground nuts add subtle texture and buttery flavor to your dough.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar, Add Flavors
Using a stand mixer (or a sturdy hand mixer), beat room temperature butter with half a cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light. Then, fold in vanilla, salt, and your finely chopped pecans to make a fragrant and flavorful base for the dough.
Step 5: Incorporate Flour and Chill the Dough
Slowly add flour to the creamed mixture, mixing just until combined to keep cookies tender. Transfer the dough to a clean surface, knead gently, then shape it into a disc wrapped loosely in plastic wrap. Chill for 30 minutes to firm it up, making rolling and shaping easier.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to bake your beautiful cookies as soon as they’re formed.
Step 7: Assemble Your Nutella Stuffed Snowball Cookies
Take your chilled dough and frozen Nutella balls out of the fridge. Pinch off a 2-inch piece of dough, split it in half, and flatten one side slightly in your palm. Nestle a frozen Nutella ball in the center, then cover with the other dough half, sealing edges completely. Roll gently to form smooth balls and place them 2 inches apart on the parchment-lined baking sheets.
Step 8: Chill the Cookies Before Baking
Pop the trays of cookie dough balls into the fridge for 30 minutes. This final chill keeps the cookies from spreading too much and helps them stay nice and round while baking.
Step 9: Bake Until Light Golden
Bake your snowball cookies for 14 to 16 minutes, or just until their edges turn a delicate golden brown. They will be firm but still soft when pressed lightly—exactly what you want for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 10: First Powdered Sugar Coating
While cookies are still warm, roll them carefully in ½ cup powdered sugar. This initial coating will add that classic snow-like appearance and a delicate sweetness layer.
Step 11: Second and Optional Third Powdered Sugar Coating
Return coated cookies to the warm baking sheet for another 5 minutes of cooling, then give them a second roll in powdered sugar for that signature opaque finish. If you want to go all out for presentation, sift a third light dusting of sugar over the cookies using a small wire sieve.
How to Serve Nutella Stuffed Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a festive touch, sprinkle a few freshly chopped pecans or a tiny drizzle of melted chocolate atop each cookie before serving. A light dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder can also add a cozy twist to your presentation.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk, a robust cup of coffee, or even a cozy mug of hot chocolate. The creamy Nutella center is perfectly complemented by warm beverages that highlight their sweetness and richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Nutella Stuffed Snowball Cookies on a rustic wooden board topped with fresh berries and sprigs of mint for a stunning holiday look. Or place them in decorative tins tied with ribbon for thoughtful homemade gifts that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps them maintain their tender texture without drying out or losing that luscious Nutella surprise inside.
Freezing
Wrap cookies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature; the Nutella center will regain its perfect creaminess.
Reheating
To enjoy cookies warm, pop them in a preheated 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. This melts the Nutella center to its gooey glory and refreshes the tender outer crumb.
FAQs
Can I substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans in this Nutella Stuffed Snowball Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans add a buttery sweetness, walnuts or almonds can be used for different but equally delicious nutty flavors. Just chop them finely to keep the texture consistent.
How do I prevent the Nutella from leaking out during baking?
The secret is freezing the Nutella into firm balls and fully sealing the dough around them. Chilling the assembled cookies before baking also helps keep the Nutella nicely contained.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum for the best structural results. The texture may be slightly different but still wonderful.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing after baking?
Yes, baked cookies freeze very well. Just make sure they are completely cooled before wrapping to prevent sogginess on thawing.
How long do Nutella Stuffed Snowball Cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly, they stay fresh and delicious for up to four days. After that, their tender texture may begin to fade, but freezing can extend their shelf life.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to add a new, extraordinary cookie to your repertoire, you simply must try this Nutella Stuffed Snowball Cookies Recipe. It’s a wonderful blend of richness, texture, and sweetness that feels like a warm hug baked right into every bite. Trust me, once you make them, these cookies will become a beloved staple that everyone asks for again and again.
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