Simple Nutella Cookies Recipe from BBC Good Food

Indulge in the irresistible combination of simplicity and decadence with our Nutella cookies recipe, inspired by the culinary geniuses at BBC Good Food. These cookies are not just treats; they're love at first bite, with their gooey, chocolate-hazelnut center and crisp, golden edges. Let's dive into this delightful recipe that's perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Nutella, the iconic spread, transforms ordinary cookies into extraordinary delights. This recipe is a testament to the power of simplicity, using just a handful of ingredients to create something truly special. So, grab your apron, and let's get baking!

Ingredients and Preparation

Before you start, ensure you have the following ingredients at hand:

• 200g plain flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 175g unsalted butter, softened
• 100g caster sugar
• 100g light soft brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 350g Nutella
• 100g milk or dark chocolate chips (optional)

Combining the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, preventing any lumps in your cookie dough.

Alternatively, you can sift the dry ingredients into the bowl. This method may take a bit longer but guarantees a smooth and lump-free dough.

Preparing the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and both types of sugar until light and fluffy. This process, known as creaming, incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter, more tender cookie.

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture may look slightly curdled at this stage, but don't worry; adding the dry ingredients will bring it back together.

Forming the Cookie Dough

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be gentle to avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Stir in the Nutella, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the dough. If using, fold in the chocolate chips for an extra touch of indulgence.

Chilling the Dough

Cover the bowl with cling film and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step helps firm up the butter, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Chilling also allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more robust Nutella taste in your cookies.

Shaping and Baking the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan) or Gas Mark 5. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, form the dough into evenly sized balls, roughly 60g each. Place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 5cm apart to allow for spreading.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in dry cookies.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial, as it helps the cookies firm up and prevents them from breaking.

Serving and Storing

Once cooled, enjoy your Nutella cookies with a glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of tea. The contrast between the warm, gooey center and the crisp exterior is simply divine!

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Although, we're sure they won't last that long!

So, there you have it – a simple, yet utterly delicious Nutella cookies recipe inspired by BBC Good Food. Happy baking, and remember, the best way to make these cookies is with love, and maybe a little Nutella on your face!