Name: Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies with Browned Butter, Vanilla Beans & Sea Salt Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 30
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup salted butter; 2¼ cups all purpose flour; 1¼ tsp Baking Soda; ¼ tsp salt; 1½ cups light brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 vanilla beans; ½ tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips; ¾ cup milk chocolate chips; ⅔ cup Nutella; coarse sea salt

In the world of desserts, the Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies with Browned Butter, Vanilla Beans and Sea Salt recipe stands out for its decadence. These aren't your ordinary chocolate chip cookies - they're elevated with browned butter, vanilla beans, and a surprise center of gooey Nutella.

Photos of Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies with Browned Butter, Vanilla Beans & Sea Salt Recipe

All ingredients in this recipe are easily found in supermarkets. However, pay special attention to the vanilla beans. They are different from the more commonly used vanilla extract and give a much richer flavor. Also, ensure you're getting coarse sea salt, not table salt, for that delightful crunch.

Ingredients for Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies with Browned Butter and Vanilla Beans

Salted butter: This will be browned to give a deep, nutty flavor to the cookies.

All-purpose flour: The base for our cookie dough.

Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise.

Salt: Balances the sweetness.

Light brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness.

Eggs: Binds the ingredients together.

Vanilla beans: Gives a rich, luxurious flavor.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.

Semi sweet chocolate chips: Provides a balanced sweetness.

Milk chocolate chips: Adds a creamy, smooth texture.

Nutella: For the delicious surprise center.

Coarse sea salt: Adds a delightful crunch and enhances the chocolate flavor.

One reader, Ingrid Parham says:

These Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookies are a game-changer! The browned butter and vanilla beans add a rich, aromatic flavor, and the sea salt gives them a perfect balance of sweet and salty. The gooey Nutella center is a delightful surprise. I can't get enough of these heavenly cookies!

Ingrid Parham

Techniques Required for Making Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies with Browned Butter, Vanilla Beans and Sea Salt

How to brown butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, continue to cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns a golden brown color and has a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn the butter. Remove from heat and transfer to a heatproof bowl to cool.

How to scrape vanilla beans: Split the vanilla beans lengthwise with a sharp knife. Use the back of the knife to scrape out the tiny seeds from the inside of the vanilla bean pod. These seeds will be used to flavor the cookie dough.

How to shape the cookies: After chilling the dough, scoop out about 2½ tablespoons of dough and shape it into a ball. Then, flatten the dough ball into a 3¼-inch circle. Place a teaspoon of chilled Nutella in the center of each circle, then carefully fold the dough up and around the Nutella, covering it entirely.

How to sprinkle with sea salt: After removing the cookies from the oven, immediately sprinkle them with coarse sea salt. This will enhance the flavor and add a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.

Chocolate lovers will indulge in these chewy chocolate chip cookies made with browned butter, studded with chocolate, then stuffed with Nutella.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total: 2 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupsalted butter,diced into 1-inch pieces
2¼cupsall purpose flour
1¼tspbaking soda
¼tspsalt
1½cupslight brown sugar,packed
2large eggs
2vanilla beans,seeds, or increase vanilla to (2 tsp)
½tspvanilla extract
1cupsemi sweet chocolate chips
¾cupmilk chocolate chips
⅔cupNutella,chilled
coarse sea salt

Instructions

Brown butter in a medium saucepan. Pour browned butter, using a rubber spatula to scrape out any excess, into the bowl of an electric stand mixer and allow to cool for about 20 to 30 minutes until lukewarm.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and ¼ tsp kosher salt, set aside.
Add light-brown sugar to cooled butter in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. With the mixer set on medium-low speed, blend the mixture together for about 1 minute until well combined.
Add in vanilla bean seeds, and vanilla, then add in eggs one at a time and mix until well combined after each addition.
Set mixer on low speed and slowly add in dry ingredients and mix just until combined. Mix in chocolate chips.
If desired, set some of the chocolate chips aside, then gently press about 5 of them into the top of each cookie dough ball after shaping.
Transfer dough to an airtight container and chill in the refrigerator for about 1½ hours.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Remove dough from refrigerator and scoop dough out about 2½ tablespoons at a time and shape into balls, then align them on a large sheet of parchment or wax paper.
Evenly flatten dough balls until you have about a 3¼-inch circle, then place 1 teaspoon chilled Nutella in the center on top of each.
Carefully fold the dough up and around Nutella, covering it entirely.
Transfer to a Silpat lined cookie sheet (fit 8 cookies per sheet) and bake in preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until golden brown.
Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle cookies with coarse sea salt. (Or sprinkle them with sea salt before baking as the salt sticks better that way).
Allow to cool several minutes on cookie sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool. Store in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Calories: 213.23kcal
Fat: 11.54g
Saturated Fat: 7.71g
Trans Fat: 0.26g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.30g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.39g
Carbohydrates: 25.95g
Fiber: 1.10g
Sugar: 17.33g
Protein: 2.33g
Cholesterol: 29.51mg
Sodium: 115.22mg
Calcium: 26.60mg
Potassium: 74.51mg
Iron: 1.08mg
Vitamin A: 57.16µg
Vitamin C: 0.03mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

When browning the butter, it's crucial to keep a close eye on it as it can quickly go from browned to burnt. The butter is ready when it turns a deep golden brown color and gives off a nutty aroma. Also, chilling the cookie dough before baking helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie.

Time-Saving Tips for Making These Gourmet Chocolate Chip Cookies

Prep ahead: Make the cookie dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. This allows you to save time on the day you want to bake the cookies.

Use a cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop will help you create uniform cookie dough balls quickly, ensuring even baking and consistent results.

Chill the Nutella: Place the Nutella in the refrigerator for a few minutes before using it in the recipe. Chilled Nutella is easier to work with and less likely to ooze out while baking.

Bake in batches: If your oven can accommodate only one cookie sheet at a time, prepare the dough in advance and bake the cookies in batches to save time.

Pre-portion the Nutella: Measure out the Nutella into individual portions before starting the assembly process. This will streamline the filling step and make it more efficient.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the cookies from sticking, saving time on washing up.

Substitute Ingredients For Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies with Browned Butter, Vanilla Beans & Sea Salt Recipe

salted butter - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can provide a similar rich and creamy texture, and it works well in baking recipes as a substitute for traditional butter.
all purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all purpose flour: For those with gluten sensitivities, using gluten-free all purpose flour can be a suitable alternative without compromising the texture of the cookies.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda in a pinch, although it may affect the texture slightly.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural sweetener alternative, providing a slightly different flavor profile to the cookies.
vanilla beans - Substitute with vanilla extract: Vanilla extract can be used as a substitute for vanilla beans, providing a similar flavor but in liquid form.
semi sweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips can be used as a substitute for semi-sweet chocolate chips, offering a richer and slightly less sweet flavor.
milk chocolate chips - Substitute with white chocolate chips: White chocolate chips can provide a creamy and sweet alternative to milk chocolate chips, adding a different flavor dimension to the cookies.
nutella - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a healthier alternative to Nutella, providing a nutty and creamy filling for the cookies.
coarse sea salt - Substitute with Himalayan pink salt: Himalayan pink salt can be used as a substitute for coarse sea salt, providing a similar salty flavor with a hint of mineral richness.

Best Way to Present These Decadent Chocolate Chip Cookies

Elevate the cookie: Place the nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookie on a sleek, modern plate to showcase its decadence and appeal.
Garnish with chocolate drizzle: Create an artistic drizzle of melted chocolate on the plate to add a touch of elegance and visual appeal to the presentation.
Sprinkle with edible gold leaf: Add a touch of luxury by delicately sprinkling edible gold leaf on the plate to elevate the visual impact of the dish.
Accompany with a dollop of whipped cream: Serve the cookie with a small dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the richness of the nutella and enhance the overall dining experience.
Serve with a side of vanilla bean ice cream: Present the cookie alongside a quenelle of creamy vanilla bean ice cream to provide a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Garnish with fresh berries: Add a pop of color and freshness to the plate by artfully placing a few fresh berries around the cookie, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Dust with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with a sprinkle of powdered sugar to create a visually stunning and professional finish to the presentation.
Accompany with a shot of espresso: Serve the cookie with a shot of rich, aromatic espresso to provide a sophisticated and complementary beverage pairing.

Essential Tools for Making Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

Medium saucepan: Used to brown the butter for the recipe.
Electric stand mixer: Used to mix the browned butter and sugar, and to incorporate the other ingredients into the cookie dough.
Mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the dry ingredients - flour, baking soda, and salt.
Rubber spatula: Used to scrape out any excess browned butter from the saucepan.
Whisk: Used to combine the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl.
Paddle attachment: Used with the stand mixer to blend the browned butter and sugar.
Sheet of parchment or wax paper: Used to shape and chill the cookie dough.
Airtight container: Used to chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator.
Cookie sheet: Used to bake the cookies in the oven.
Silpat: Used to line the cookie sheet and prevent the cookies from sticking.
Wire rack: Used to cool the cookies after baking.
Spatula: Used to transfer the cookies from the cookie sheet to the wire rack.
Oven: Used to bake the cookies at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

How To Store and Freeze Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep the cookies extra fresh, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies. The bread will absorb any excess moisture and keep the cookies soft and chewy.
If you want to freeze the cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Then, transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let the cookies thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
For an extra special treat, warm up the cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before enjoying. This will make the chocolate chips and Nutella filling nice and gooey.
If you have any leftover cookie dough, you can freeze it for later use. Roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a lined baking sheet and bake as directed in the recipe, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

How To Reheat Leftover Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

To reheat leftover nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookies in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and the edges are slightly crispy. This method will help restore the cookies' original texture and flavor, making them taste almost as good as freshly baked.
If you prefer a softer, chewier texture, you can reheat the cookies in the microwave. Place one or two cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 10-15 seconds. Check the cookies and continue heating in 5-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature and texture. Be careful not to overheat the cookies, as this can cause the chocolate chips to burn and the nutella filling to become too hot.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can use a toaster oven. Set your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies on the wire rack. Heat the cookies for 3-5 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the edges are slightly crispy. This method is perfect for reheating small batches of cookies without having to preheat a full-sized oven.
If you want to enjoy your leftover cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, try reheating them in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the cookies in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. Serve the warm cookies with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent treat.
For a no-heat option, you can let the cookies come to room temperature naturally. Remove the cookies from the refrigerator and let them sit on the counter for 15-20 minutes. This method is ideal if you prefer a softer, chewier texture and want to enjoy the flavors of the browned butter, vanilla beans, and sea salt without any additional heat.

Interesting Fact About Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

The chocolate chip cookie was invented by Ruth Wakefield in the 1930s. She added chunks of a chocolate bar to her cookie recipe, expecting them to melt and create chocolate cookies. However, the chocolate pieces retained their shape, and the chocolate chip cookie was born.

Is Making Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

This nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookies with browned butter, vanilla beans and sea salt recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of browned butter and vanilla beans may increase the cost slightly, but the overall ingredients are fairly common and can be found at reasonable prices. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering the delightful combination of flavors and the indulgent appeal of the cookies.

Are Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookies with browned butter, vanilla beans, and sea salt is undeniably delicious, but it's not the healthiest choice. Here's why:

The recipe contains a high amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat
It uses a significant amount of sugar, particularly light brown sugar, which can contribute to obesity and other health issues when consumed in excess
The inclusion of Nutella, while tasty, adds more sugar and fat to the recipe
The recipe relies heavily on all-purpose flour, which is a refined carbohydrate lacking in fiber and nutrients

However, there are a few redeeming qualities:

The use of vanilla beans provides a natural flavor and aroma
The addition of sea salt can help balance the sweetness and enhance the overall taste

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Reduce the amount of sugar by 1/4 to 1/2 cup, as the chocolate chips and Nutella will still provide plenty of sweetness
Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate chips, as they contain less sugar and more antioxidants
Experiment with using a portion of coconut oil instead of butter to reduce the saturated fat content
Decrease the amount of Nutella used, or opt for a homemade version with less sugar and healthier ingredients like hazelnuts and cocoa powder

By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the indulgence of these cookies while making them a bit more nutritious. Remember, moderation is key, and it's perfectly fine to treat yourself to these delectable cookies on occasion as part of a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion on This Decadent Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe

The combination of browned butter, vanilla beans, and sea salt elevates the classic chocolate chip cookie to a whole new level of indulgence. The addition of Nutella adds a rich and creamy surprise in the center, making each bite a delightful experience. The use of both semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips provides a perfect balance of sweetness, and the sprinkle of coarse sea salt on top adds a satisfying contrast. This recipe is a true masterpiece that will surely impress anyone with a sweet tooth.

Enhance Your Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies with Browned Butter, Vanilla Beans & Sea Salt Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Create a creamy and flavorful roasted garlic mashed potatoes to complement the rich and indulgent nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookies.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Add a touch of freshness and brightness to the meal with some grilled asparagus topped with zesty lemon zest.

Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Tart: Serve up a savory and elegant caramelized onion and gruyere tart as a sophisticated side to balance out the sweetness of the dessert.

Similar Recipes to Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

Crispy Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: These crispy parmesan roasted potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal. The combination of parmesan cheese and roasted potatoes creates a delicious and savory flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This honey garlic glazed salmon recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and healthy meal. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a flavorful glaze that pairs perfectly with the tender and flaky salmon.

Mango Salsa: This mango salsa recipe is a refreshing and flavorful addition to any meal. The combination of sweet mango, spicy jalapeno, and tangy lime creates a delicious and versatile salsa that can be enjoyed with chips, on top of grilled chicken, or as a topping for fish tacos.

Appetizers and Main Dishes That Complement Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: For a savory and indulgent appetizer, try creating stuffed mushrooms filled with a creamy mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and flavorful filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with bruschetta topped with a variety of fresh and vibrant toppings. From classic tomato and basil to tangy balsamic glaze and creamy burrata, there are endless possibilities to customize this Italian favorite. Serve it as a light and refreshing starter to impress your guests.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: For a light and flavorful main course, try grilling salmon with a citrus marinade. The tangy flavors of lemon and orange complement the rich, buttery taste of the salmon. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Indulge in a comforting and hearty beef stroganoff, featuring tender strips of beef in a creamy mushroom sauce. Pair it with buttery egg noodles for a classic and filling dish that is sure to please the whole family.

Why trust this Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies with Browned Butter, Vanilla Beans & Sea Salt Recipe:

This recipe offers a perfect balance of rich flavors and textures, combining the indulgent sweetness of nutella and chocolate chips with the depth of browned butter and the subtle aroma of vanilla beans. The addition of coarse sea salt provides a delightful contrast, enhancing the overall taste experience. The meticulous instructions ensure that each step is carefully executed, resulting in a decadent treat that is both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious. With the use of high-quality ingredients such as semi-sweet chocolate chips and milk chocolate chips, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying outcome, earning the trust of every discerning home baker.

Want to share your experience making these Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies with Browned Butter, Vanilla Beans & Sea Salt? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how they turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter in this recipe. Just add a pinch of salt to the dough to make up for the absence of salt in the unsalted butter.

Can I substitute vanilla extract for the vanilla beans?

Yes, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for the vanilla beans. The flavor may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Can I make the cookie dough in advance and bake it later?

Yes, you can make the cookie dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before shaping and baking the cookies.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

Can I omit the sea salt on top of the cookies?

Yes, you can omit the sea salt if you prefer. The cookies will still be delicious without it, but the sea salt adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.