Nutella-Stuffed Skillet Cookie Recipe Ready in 40 Minutes

Introduction

Imagine a warm, gooey cookie, fresh from the oven, filled with the rich, chocolate-hazelnut flavor of Nutella. This Nutella-stuffed skillet cookie recipe is a game-changer for anyone with a sweet tooth and limited time. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick dessert or a fun baking project with the family. The best part? It uses everyday ingredients and is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor and creativity.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of Nutella and cookie dough creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. Plus, all the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: The recipe involves simple steps like mixing the dough, spreading Nutella, and baking, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the end result is a stunning, indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress friends and family.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup Nutella, for the filling
• Optional: chopped hazelnuts or sea salt for topping

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
3. Step 3: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour mixture) until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Stir in the chocolate chips.
4. Step 4: Press half of the cookie dough into the bottom of a 10-inch oven-safe skillet. Spread the Nutella over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Top with the remaining cookie dough, pressing the edges to seal.
5. Step 5: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cookie is golden brown and set. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. If desired, top with chopped hazelnuts or a sprinkle of sea salt.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overbake, as the cookie will continue to cook a bit after it’s removed from the oven. It should be slightly soft in the center.
• For an extra gooey Nutella center, don’t overfill the cookie with Nutella, and consider baking for 23-25 minutes instead.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate chips or nuts for varied flavor profiles.

Heat Control

Keep an eye on the temperature and the cookie’s color. The ideal baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s crucial to check the cookie frequently towards the end of the baking time. The cookie is done when it’s golden brown and firm to the touch, with the edges being slightly more set than the center.

Crunch Factor

This Nutella-stuffed skillet cookie is designed to be soft and chewy on the inside, with a crispy edge. To achieve this, avoid overbaking and ensure the cookie cools slightly before serving. For an added crunch, top with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt before baking.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality ingredients, like real vanilla extract and semi-sweet chocolate chips, for the best flavor.
• Don’t overmix the dough, as this can lead to a tough cookie.
• Consider using a cast-iron skillet for an extra crispy crust and a more even bake.

Storage Tips

• Let the cookie cool completely in the skillet before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm and gooey again.
• While it’s best served fresh, the cookie can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Simply assemble the cookie, cover the skillet with plastic wrap, and bake when ready.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This Nutella-stuffed skillet cookie is a wonderful gift for friends, family, or coworkers. Consider packaging it in a decorative tin or gift box, topped with a ribbon and a card. For a more rustic look, wrap the cooled cookie in parchment paper and twine. You could also package slices individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for a quick and easy treat on-the-go.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper to the dough for a unique twist.
• Creative toppings: Experiment with various nuts (walnuts, pecans), dried fruits (cranberries, cherries), or even candy pieces (M&M’s, chocolate chips) on top of the cookie before baking.
• Ingredient swaps: Replace the Nutella with another chocolate-hazelnut spread or try using peanut butter or almond butter for a different flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the cookie turns out too hard, it may have been overbaked. Try reducing the baking time next time. If it’s too soft, it might not have been baked long enough.
• Ingredient replacements: While the recipe is quite versatile, replacing the butter with margarine or the eggs with egg substitutes might affect the texture and flavor of the final product.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the color and texture. A perfectly baked cookie will be golden brown and slightly soft in the center.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked cookie for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe contains wheat flour and is not suitable for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity without significant modifications.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, simply double all the ingredients and use a larger skillet. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

This Nutella-stuffed skillet cookie recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delicious, easy-to-make dessert. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings or fillings to make it your own, and enjoy the joy of baking and sharing this treat with others. Happy baking!