Name: Gooey White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies You’ll Adore
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Sifted for a lighter texture); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Adds moisture); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Balances sweetness); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (For better control of saltiness); 2 large Eggs (Essential for binding); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Leavening agent for rise); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavors); 1 cup White Chocolate & Hazelnut Spread (High-quality for gooey center); 1/2 cup Chocolate Chips (For added richness); 1/4 cup Crushed Hazelnuts (Adds texture and flavor); 1/4 cup Feuilletine (Adds fantastic crunch)

The kitchen fills with the warm, sweet scent of baking cookies, transporting me to my childhood—a time when every bite made my heart sing with joy. These Gooey White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies are a delightful ode to those memories, featuring a warm, golden-brown exterior that envelops a luscious core of creamy white chocolate hazelnut spread. Not only are they unbelievably indulgent, but they’re also surprisingly simple to whip up at home, making them perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Whether you’re satisfying a sweet tooth or impressing friends with your baking skills, these cookies promise to be a crowd-pleaser. Curious how this delicious treat can elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Gooey, Decadent Center: Each bite reveals a melting pocket of white chocolate hazelnut spread that defines indulgence.

Golden-Brown Perfection: The slightly crisp exterior contrasts delightfully with the soft, chewy interior for a sensational texture experience.

Effortless to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create these brilliant treats with ease.

Versatile Variations: Personalize your cookies by swapping hazelnuts for almonds or experimenting with different chocolate flavors, just like in my Mint Chocolate Brownies or Chocolate Churro Cookies.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are guaranteed to impress friends and family, making them the ultimate treat!

White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• All-Purpose Flour – This is your main ingredient for structure; sift it for a lighter texture.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a chewy bite; the secret to soft cookies.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances sweetness and contributes to a lovely golden crust.
• Butter – Use unsalted for better control over saltiness and richer flavor.
• Eggs – These are essential for binding the ingredients together and achieving that perfect texture.
• Baking Soda – This leavening agent is key for achieving those perfectly risen cookies.
• Salt – A little pinch enhances all the flavors in these delightful cookies.

For the Filling

• White Chocolate & Hazelnut Spread – The star of the show; opt for a high-quality brand ensuring that gooey, molten center you crave.
• Chocolate Chips – For those who can’t get enough chocolate; fold them in for added richness.
• Crushed Hazelnuts – Provides delightful texture and a nutty flavor that elevates the cookie experience.

For Extra Crunch (Optional)

• Feuilletine – If you have it on hand, it adds a fantastic crunch; feel free to skip it if unavailable.

These White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies are truly a labor of love, effortlessly crafted to provide a sweet sanctuary that brightens any moment.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies – Gooey & Irresistible

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (fan). This will ensure your White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior. While the oven heats, you can prepare your workspace, gathering all necessary ingredients and equipment to streamline your process.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Scoop small portions of the white chocolate hazelnut spread onto a parchment-lined tray and place them in the freezer for about 15–20 minutes. This will allow the filling to firm up, making it easier to incorporate into your cookies. Once frozen, you can set them aside as you move on to the dough preparation.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Use a whisk to ensure these dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed, which will help evenly distribute the leavening agent throughout your cookies. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In another bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2–3 minutes. This process is key to achieving the moist and chewy texture that will make these cookies irresistible.

Step 5: Add Eggs
Next, incorporate the eggs, adding them one at a time to the creamed mixture. Beat well after each addition until fully combined. This will help to bind the ingredients, contributing to the overall richness and flavor of your White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, which can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, ready to envelop your frozen filling.

Step 7: Fold in Chips and Hazelnuts
Gently fold in the chocolate chips and crushed hazelnuts with a spatula or wooden spoon. This adds delightful texture and flavor contrast to your cookies, creating a scrumptious bite filled with gooey white chocolate and nutty goodness.

Step 8: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, take a portion of the dough and flatten it in your palm. Wrap the dough around a frozen scoop of white chocolate hazelnut spread, ensuring it’s completely encased. Roll the dough into a ball and place it on a lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.

Step 9: Chill the Dough
Refrigerate the shaped cookies for at least 30 minutes before baking. Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, ensuring they maintain their thick, chewy texture and gooey center.

Step 10: Bake the Cookies
Once chilled, bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. They should be lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overbaking, as you want that gooey interior to shine through.

Step 11: Cool the Cookies
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This allows them to set properly before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely for the best texture, as they’ll firm up nicely outside the oven.

Make Ahead Options

These Gooey White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time when you’re busy. You can prepare the cookie dough and shape the cookies up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap the dough balls around your frozen filling and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want to extend the prep time, these cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time for perfect results. To maintain their delicious quality, make sure you cool the cookies completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature, ensuring they stay soft and gooey!

Storage Tips for White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Shape and stuff the cookies, then freeze them for up to three months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time for delicious results.

Airtight Guidance: To keep cookies soft, add a slice of bread in the storage container. It helps maintain moisture and prolongs their chewiness.

Reheating: For the elusive gooey center, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds before enjoying!

White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these delicious twists!

Nut Swap: Replace hazelnuts with almonds or macadamia nuts for a delightful change in flavor and crunch. This simple swap opens a world of nutty indulgence.
Chocolate Change: Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate for a richer taste. It’s an easy alteration that can completely transform the flavor profile of your cookies.
Fruity Surprise: Incorporate fruity fillings such as caramel or fruit preserves alongside the white chocolate for an unexpected burst of sweetness. Imagine sweet hints of berry with every bite!
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an inviting warmth and a hint of spice. It’s a great way to elevate the classic cookie experience and invite cozy flavors.
Extra Crunch: Mix in some crushed pretzels or sea salt for a satisfying salty-sweet crunch. This contrast can take your cookies to a whole new level of flavor.
Cookie Experiment: Opt for brown butter in place of regular butter for a nutty, toasty flavor that adds depth to your cookies. Your taste buds will thank you for this extra layer of goodness!
Mini Cookie Version: Create mini stuffed cookies using a teaspoon of dough to form smaller bites of cookie joy. These are perfect for parties or snacking throughout the day.

Feel inspired? As you bake these delightful cookies, consider pairing them with a scoop of ice cream or enjoying them beside a cup of warm coffee, just like the ones we use in our Chocolate Churro Cookies. Happy baking!

What to Serve with Gooey White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies

Indulge in a delightful spread that perfectly complements these rich, sweet cookies and takes your dessert experience to the next level.

Iced Coffee: The bold, chilled flavors of iced coffee contrast beautifully with the sweet, creamy cookies, awakening your taste buds.
Vanilla Latte: The smooth milkiness and subtle sweetness of a vanilla latte enhance the cookie’s flavors while creating a cozy vibe.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful temperature contrast and balances the cookie’s richness.
Espresso: Sip on a shot of espresso to cut through the sweetness and offer a fragrant, robust pairing that cookie lovers will adore.
Fresh Berries: A side of fresh raspberries or strawberries brings brightness and natural acidity, cleansing the palate delightfully after each rich bite.
Hazelnut Milk: For a nutty, creamy vibe, serve with hazelnut milk. Its subtle sweetness feels like a warm embrace, echoing the cookie’s flavors.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cookies for an indulgent experience that truly satisfies chocolate cravings.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Milkshake: Blend cookies into a creamy milkshake for an extra decadent twist; the ultimate treat for cookie lovers!
Mini Cheesecakes: Serve alongside mini cheesecakes for an elegant dessert spread that balances flavors and textures beautifully.
Chai Tea Latte: The warm spices in chai tea enhance the cookies’ flavors, creating a comforting, cozy experience on chilly evenings.

Expert Tips for Gooey Cookies

High-Quality Spread: Use a premium white chocolate hazelnut spread for that perfect molten center. Avoid grainy or overly thick spreads to achieve optimal gooeyness.
Chill Dough: Always chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent overspreading and ensure those thick, chewy cookies.
Don’t Overbake: Keep a watchful eye while baking. For the best White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies, they should be golden on the edges but still soft in the middle.
Sift Flour: For a lighter texture, sift your all-purpose flour before adding it to the mixture. This helps avoid a dense cookie.
Handle Filling Quickly: Work swiftly with the frozen filling to prevent it from melting before encasing it in the dough. This step is crucial for achieving that gooey center!
Moisture Matters: Brown sugar is your secret weapon for soft cookies. It retains moisture better, ensuring your treats remain chewy and delightful for days!

White Chocolate & Hazelnut Stuffed Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of white chocolate hazelnut spread should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for a high-quality brand of white chocolate hazelnut spread. Look for a smooth consistency without any graininess. This ensures a luscious, gooey center that melts beautifully when baked. I recommend trying brands like Nutella or other artisanal options found in specialty stores.

How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Adding a slice of bread to the container can help retain moisture, keeping the cookies soft and chewy. Just be sure to replace the bread every few days if it becomes stale!

Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Shape and stuff them as per the instructions, then lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about an hour until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. These can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight from the freezer into the oven, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time for delicious results.

What can I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find your cookie dough is too sticky, don’t worry! This can happen sometimes. Simply sprinkle a bit more flour onto your work surface and into the dough, mixing gently until it’s manageable. However, be careful not to add too much flour, as it can lead to dense cookies. A good test is to make sure the dough holds its shape but isn’t so dry that it crumbles.

Are these cookies safe for people with allergies?
Great question! These cookies contain common allergens like gluten (from all-purpose flour) and nuts (hazelnuts). If you’re baking for someone with allergies, consider using gluten-free flour options and substituting nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds to provide a similar crunch without the allergen risk. Always double-check labels for safety!